Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are one of the most powerful tools in cosmetic dentistry. Thin shells of high-quality porcelain are bonded to the front of your teeth to change the color, shape, length, and overall look of your smile. When they are designed and placed well, they look completely natural.

What it is

A veneer is a custom-made cover that bonds to the front surface of a tooth. Veneers are most often used on the eight to ten teeth that show when you smile.

Veneers can:

• Brighten teeth that did not respond to whitening
• Reshape chipped, worn, or oddly shaped teeth
• Close small gaps between teeth
• Make slightly crooked teeth look straight (when orthodontics is not needed)
• Lengthen teeth that have worn down over time

Veneers are not removable. They are a long-term commitment to a brighter, reshaped smile.

What to expect

A full veneer case usually takes two to three visits over a few weeks.

Consult and design:

1. You bring photos of smiles you like, or just tell us what you want to change
2. We examine your teeth, take photos, and may take a digital scan
3. Together we plan the new smile — number of veneers, shape, length, color
4. Many cases include a wax-up or digital mock-up so you can preview the design

Preparation visit (about two hours for several teeth):

1. A thin layer of enamel is gently shaped on the front of each tooth so the veneers can sit flush
2. We take a final impression or digital scan
3. Temporary veneers protect your teeth and give you a feel for the new look
4. You go home and live with the temporaries for a week or two

Placement visit (about two hours):

1. We remove the temporaries
2. We try in the permanent veneers and check the fit, color, and shape
3. Once you are happy, the veneers are bonded into place
4. We polish, check your bite, and you go home with your new smile

Most patients adjust to veneers within a few days. With good home care and regular check-ups, well-made veneers last many years.

Who it’s for

Veneers may be a good fit if you:

• Are unhappy with the color, shape, or alignment of your front teeth
• Have small chips, worn edges, or uneven lengths
• Want a bigger change than whitening alone can provide
• Have healthy teeth and gums to start with
• Are ready for a long-term cosmetic investment

If you have major bite issues, untreated gum disease, or active cavities, we will sort those out first. Veneers work best when your mouth is healthy.