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Veneers Q & A

What are veneers?

Dental veneers are wafer-thin pieces of porcelain that improve the appearance of your smile. They’re bonded to the front of your permanent teeth and cover up small cosmetic imperfections.  

If you have only one tooth that’s discolored, you might only need a single veneer. Still, the team at Los Gatos Dental typically recommends getting six or eight because it allows for a more balanced and symmetrical smile

What types of issues can veneers correct?

At Los Gatos Dental, the team uses veneers to correct minor cosmetic imperfections, including:

  • Gaps between your teeth
  • Crooked teeth
  • Decay
  • Chips and small missing pieces

You might also benefit from veneers if you have discolored teeth and they don’t respond to teeth whitening.

What does getting veneers involve?

At Los Gatos Dental, getting veneers takes two visits.

During the first appointment, your provider conducts an oral exam and takes X-rays to assess the health and position of your teeth. If there aren’t any cavities or signs of gum disease, your provider numbs your mouth and removes a thin layer of enamel from each tooth receiving a veneer. 

Then, your dentist takes impressions of your mouth. A dental laboratory uses your impressions to design and create a custom set of veneers that fit perfectly.

When your veneers are finished, you return to Los Gatos Dental. Your provider bonds the veneers to the front of your teeth, removes any excess material, and polishes them. Then, they provide care instructions.

How do I care for my veneers?

To prevent damage to your veneers, it’s important to take care of them. The team at Los Gatos Dental recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office twice a year for teeth cleaning and an oral exam.

Veneers are tough, but they can experience damage. Therefore, it’s important to wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports or a nightguard if you grind your teeth during sleep. With proper care, veneers can last 12-15* years and sometimes longer.

How much do veneers cost?

The cost of veneers depends on various factors, including the number of teeth being repaired and the amount of work required. Following an oral exam and a discussion of your goals, your Los Gatos Dental provider can prepare a custom estimate.

If you want to learn more about veneers, make an appointment at Los Gatos Dental by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.

*Individual results may vary.