Are Veneers Right For Me? All Your Questions, Answered

Do you have discolored, chipped, or misshapen teeth that make you uncomfortable when you smile or speak? If so, you may be considering porcelain veneers to improve the appearance of your smile. Veneers are one of the most common cosmetic dental treatments that can transform your smile. They can greatly improve your smile and overall appearance, but they are permanent, so it's important to take the time to make the right decision. If you are researching veneers and are not yet convinced that they are the right choice for you, we have information that will help you decide. 

Continue reading to learn if they are right for you and where to get the best veneers in San Francisco. 

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin, durable shells made of porcelain that are placed over the front surface of your teeth — instantly improving the appearance of your smile. They are made of either porcelain or composite resin and are commonly used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including: 

• Crooked or misshapen teeth
• Discolored teeth 
• Chipped teeth 
• Gapped teeth 

Veneers are custom-made and can be shaded to match your neighboring natural teeth or can be shaded up to brighten and improve your smile.

How Are Veneers Applied?

Veneers are typically placed over the course of two or three visits to the dentist. The process of applying veneers involves the following steps:

1. Consultation and Examination: During your initial visit, your teeth will be examined, and your smile goals will be discussed. If you and your dentist agree that veneers are the best option for you, they can start the preparation process. 
2. Preparation: A digital scan is taken to create a wax-up, or physical model, of how your new smile will look. Digital scans are preferred over traditional gooey impressions, which can be uncomfortable for patients.
3. Temporary Veneers: Temporary veneers are placed while your permanent ones are fabricated. A small amount of enamel is removed from their surface to make room for the veneers and ensure a proper fit. 
4. Bonding: Once your custom veneers are ready, your dentist will place them on your teeth to check the fit and color. 
5. Final Bonding: The dentist will clean, polish, and etch your natural tooth to prepare it for the veneer. Then, a bonding is used to affix your veneer to your tooth permanently. 

After getting your veneers, your dentist may schedule a follow-up visit to ensure that the veneers stay in place and function as intended. At Robert Soto, DDS, we always schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure you are absolutely delighted with your new veneers.  

Am I a Good Candidate for Veneers?

One of the most frequently asked questions Dr. Soto gets is, “Am I a good candidate for veneers?”. Veneers are a great option for people with discolored, chipped, cracked, or misaligned teeth. However, not everyone can get them. If you have severe tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems, they may not be the best solution for you. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine if they are right for you.

What Are the Benefits of Veneers?

For people who have good oral health, veneers have several benefits, including:

• Improved appearance of teeth and smile
• Increased confidence 
• Natural-looking results compared to dentures
• Stain-resistance for veneered teeth 
• A durable and long-lasting solution to imperfect teeth

Veneers can be a permanent and satisfying solution if you’re struggling with confidence due to unhappiness with your teeth. 

Who Shouldn’t Get Veneers?

Veneers may not be suitable for people with unhealthy teeth or gums, those who grind or clench their teeth, or those with inadequate tooth enamel. Additionally, individuals with a history of poor oral hygiene or who are unable to commit to proper dental care may not be good candidates for veneers.

Do I Brush Veneers Like Real Teeth? 

Caring for veneers is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. It is also important to avoid biting down on hard objects, as this can damage your veneers. With proper care, they can give you a beautiful, confident smile for many years.

Where to Get the Best Veneers in San Francisco

Robert Soto, DDS and his team are experts in veneers and other cosmetic dentistry solutions. Whether you're looking to fix small dental imperfections or get a full smile makeover, our experienced team is dedicated to providing premier cosmetic dentistry in an upscale environment. 

We make it easier than ever for you to learn if veneers are right for you. Simply request a free consultation and submit your photos for Dr. Soto to review personally. You’ll then receive a video recommendation and have the opportunity to schedule an in-person appointment to get started. 

Ready to take the first step toward the smile of your dreams by getting dental veneers in San Francisco?