Porcelain Veneers in Los Angeles, CA
Veneers are an effective solution for oddly shaped, discolored, chipped, or gapped teeth. Dr. Elaine Gorelik and the team at Trident Dentistry design custom porcelain veneers that look natural, resist stains, and give you the smile you’ve always wanted.
Request an AppointmentWhat Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of your teeth. They are permanently bonded in place with a special dental cement, providing a long-term solution for discolored, misshapen, or broken teeth. Veneers typically last 7 to 15 years and are made from porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers resist stains better and closely mimic the translucency and texture of natural enamel.
Advantages of Veneers
Compared to crowns, veneers change the appearance of a tooth with far less reshaping, making them a more conservative option. They often require less chair time than crowns and can be more cost-effective for purely cosmetic concerns. Benefits include:
- A natural, beautiful appearance
- Excellent stain resistance with porcelain
- Minimal removal of natural tooth structure
- Long-lasting, durable results
- Customized shape, size, and shade for your face
What Problems Can Veneers Fix?
Many patients choose veneers to cover teeth discolored by medications, old restorations, or stains that don’t respond to whitening. Veneers can also correct:
- Worn-down teeth from aging or grinding
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Mildly crooked teeth
The Veneer Process
Getting veneers usually takes three visits:
- Consultation: An exam and discussion of your goals. Because veneers aren’t suitable for teeth with significant decay, we may take digital X-rays. Digital Smile Design lets you preview your new smile.
- Preparation: About ½ millimeter of enamel is removed from each tooth to make room for the veneer. We take an impression that is sent to a dental lab, which crafts your veneers over about two weeks.
- Bonding: We check the fit and color, trim if necessary, then bond each veneer with shade-matched cement that is hardened with a curing light.
If you’re considering whitening, it’s best to whiten before your veneers are made so they match perfectly. Veneers won’t change color with future whitening.
Caring for Your Veneers
Veneers need the same care as natural teeth: brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings. To help them last:
- Don’t chew on fingernails, pens, ice, or other hard objects
- Wear a mouthguard for sports and a night guard if you grind
- Brush after consuming staining foods and drinks like beets, coffee, and red wine
See real veneer results in our Smile Gallery, compare other cosmetic options, or ask about financing.
Veneers FAQs
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers typically last 7 to 15 years with proper care, and many last even longer.
Do veneers look natural?
Yes. Porcelain veneers are custom-shaded and shaped to mimic natural enamel and fit your facial features.
Is getting veneers painful?
Most patients experience little discomfort. Local anesthetic is used during tooth preparation if needed.
How many visits does it take to get veneers?
Veneers usually require three visits: a consultation, a preparation appointment, and a bonding appointment.
Can veneers be whitened?
No. Veneers don’t respond to whitening, so we recommend whitening your natural teeth before getting veneers.
Are veneers better than bonding?
Veneers are more durable and stain-resistant, while bonding is faster and more affordable for small repairs. We’ll help you decide which is right for you.
Who is a good candidate for veneers?
Good candidates have healthy teeth and gums and want to correct stains, chips, gaps, or uneven teeth.
Get the Smile You Have Always Wanted
Find out if veneers are right for you. Call Trident Dentistry at (310) 444-1445 or request a consultation online with Dr. Gorelik.