ACE DNTL STUDIO

The 0.3mm Decision — When More Preparation Is Always Wrong

The contact-lens-thickness rule of thumb exists because tooth structure removed cannot be replaced. The case for going deeper has to be argued. The case for staying shallow defaults.

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Direct Answers

What is minimal-prep veneer preparation?: Minimal-prep veneers are bonded after removing only 0.3–0.5 mm of enamel — less than the thickness of a contact lens. The preparation preserves the full enamel layer where possible, which improves bond strength (from ~20 MPa on dentin to ~30 MPa on enamel) and extends the long-term prognosis of the tooth by 5–10 years in published longitudinal studies.
Does ACE DNTL always use minimal-prep?: Wherever biology permits — yes, as the default. Three situations legitimately require deeper preparation: severe colour change requiring opaque masking, significant tooth re-positioning, or replacement of existing restorations. Each deviation is documented with a written reason in the clinical record. Across the published 100-case pilot dataset, 66 of 100 cases were delivered at minimal-prep or no-prep depth.
Why do some dentists remove more enamel?: Aggressive preparation is faster (10-15 minutes per tooth vs 30-45 for minimal-prep), more forgiving of laboratory error, and produces a thicker substrate that is easier to bond. These are operational advantages for the clinic. The cost — shorter long-term prognosis, weaker bond strength, exposed dentin sensitivity, fewer future treatment options — is borne by the patient.
Can a deeper-prepared case be revised back to minimal-prep?: No — once enamel is removed, it cannot be restored. This is the reason the original conservation decision matters. Cases that have been aggressively prepared can be re-treated with new restorations on European-standard quality (see /veneer-revision-european-standard), but the underlying tooth structure cannot be returned to its pre-treatment state. Earlier-stage cases (year 1-3 follow-up) have more revision options than late-stage cases (year 8+).

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Medical disclaimer. Results of cosmetic and restorative dental treatment vary by individual. Information on this site is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute clinical advice. Every case is assessed in person before any treatment is proposed. Registered: ACE DNTL STUDIO · Av. Pilar Calvo, Centro Comercial Ibérico, 29660 Marbella, Málaga, Spain.