Porcelain Veneers (Prosthodontics) in Los Angeles, CA

A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain that covers the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. They correct minor cosmetic problems such as staining, chipping, and misalignment. The veneer will entirely protect the tooth's front surface and conceal imperfections like discolorations or gaps between teeth. A patient can choose to get a single veneer or a set of them depending on the appearance they want to achieve. At Carlston Dental Group, our dentist will examine your teeth during the consultation and plan your treatment. Then the process itself is pretty straightforward. 

The Procedure for Porcelain Veneers

Our dentist will remove a small portion of the enamel from the front of your teeth to make room for the veneer. After an impression is taken and sent to a lab, your permanent restoration will be fabricated in a high-quality material that matches your natural teeth.

When your permanent veneer is ready, your dentist will place it in your mouth and gently shape it to fit perfectly with your tooth. Once placed, your dentist will check the color and shape of your veneers to ensure they are both aesthetically pleasing and correct any imperfections. Finally, a special dental cement is used to secure your veneer in place permanently. You can expect your new veneers to last for many years with proper care. However, it’s important to remember that although porcelain is solid and durable, it, too, can chip or break if not properly cared for.

The Advantages of Porcelain Veneers

Stain Resistance

Porcelain is resistant to staining agents, such as coffee, tea, and wine. Because you can eat and drink what you like with your new smile, you will not have to alter your diet and lifestyle to avoid discoloration. You can also easily clean your veneers without causing damage. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to scrub the surfaces gently. For more thorough cleaning, visit your dentist for professional teeth cleanings and checkups every four to six months.

Natural-Looking Appearance

Another benefit of choosing porcelain for your restorations is that porcelain mimics the appearance of natural teeth. The material can be shaded to match the exact color of your surrounding enamel, so no one can tell that you have veneers in place. The translucence of the material also lends a natural appearance, as the light can shine through the veneer without being blocked by a dark line at the gumline.