Pacheco publishes study on veneers’ impact on tooth color

Dr. Rafael Pacheco, Vice Chair of the Department of Restorative Sciences, recently authored a study with fellow researchers from Ingá University Center and São Leopoldo Mandic Institute and Dental Research Center, both in Brazil. The study, entitled, “Color alteration with ceramic veneers according to the tooth type and preparation step: A clinical analysis,” investigated how ceramic veneers affect the color of human teeth.

The most significant factor in tooth color change after veneer placement is the removal of enamel, the tooth’s outer layer. Enamel is naturally translucent, allowing the underlying dentin (which is darker) to show through. When enamel is removed, more dentin is exposed, resulting in a perceived yellowing of the tooth.

The team found that veneer thickness doesn’t significantly affect the final color, but highly translucent veneers might not be ideal for significant tooth color changes. This suggests that while veneers can alter tooth color, dentists can achieve the desired outcome through material selection and technique. Click here to read their publication in The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.