Transform Your Smile with Custom Porcelain Veneers
Redwood City, CA Dentist Offers Porcelain Veneers Services
Porcelain veneers are one of the most effective cosmetic treatments available for dramatically improving the appearance of your smile. Ultra-thin ceramic shells are custom crafted to fit over the front surface of your teeth, instantly correcting issues with color, shape, size, and alignment — all in just a few visits.
What Can Porcelain Veneers Fix?
Veneers are a versatile cosmetic option that can address multiple concerns at once.
- Stained or discolored teeth that do not respond to whitening
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Teeth that appear too small, short, or uneven
- Mildly misaligned teeth
The Veneer Process
Getting porcelain veneers typically takes two to three visits. At the first appointment, our team will discuss your goals and evaluate your teeth. A small amount of enamel is removed from the tooth surface to ensure a natural fit. Impressions are taken and sent to our dental laboratory where your custom veneers are fabricated over approximately 10 to 14 days. Temporary veneers are placed while you wait. At your final appointment, the permanent veneers are bonded into place and adjusted for a comfortable, natural-feeling result.
Are Porcelain Veneers Right for Me?
Porcelain veneers are best suited for patients in good overall oral health who want to make significant cosmetic improvements to their smile. Because a small amount of enamel is removed during preparation, veneers are considered a permanent treatment. Patients with active gum disease, significant tooth decay, or those who grind their teeth heavily may need to address those issues first. In some cases, alternatives such as dental bonding or crowns may be a better fit. Dr. Meza will evaluate your smile and discuss all available options during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells custom made to fit over the front surface of your teeth to improve their color, shape, size, and overall appearance.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like nail biting or chewing on hard objects help extend their lifespan.
Do porcelain veneers look natural?
Yes. Porcelain closely mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel. Veneers are custom shaded and shaped to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent treatment because a small amount of enamel is removed from the tooth during preparation. Once placed, the tooth will always require a veneer or another restoration.
Do veneers hurt?
The preparation process is done under local anesthetic, so most patients experience little to no discomfort. Some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is normal after placement and typically fades within a few days.
Can porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining compared to natural enamel. However, limiting coffee, tea, and tobacco helps maintain their appearance over time.
What is the difference between veneers and dental bonding?
Bonding uses resin applied directly to the tooth and is better suited for minor corrections. Porcelain veneers cover the entire front surface of the tooth and are more durable and natural looking, making them a better option for more significant cosmetic changes.
How do I get started with porcelain veneers in Redwood City?
Call us at (650) 587-3788 or request an appointment through our website. We will evaluate your smile and walk you through your options.