What are veneers?
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or other materials that bond with the enamel of your natural teeth to enhance your smile’s appearance. Veneers help improve teeth that are:
- Discolored
- Misshapen
- Chipped
- Jagged
- Gapped
Veneers cover the front part of unsightly teeth, but look and feel like your real teeth. They improve the look of teeth by making them appear:
- Whiter
- Straighter
- Smoother
- More natural looking
To be a good candidate for veneers, your natural teeth must be strong enough to support the veneers. If they aren’t or if you have loose or missing teeth, ask Dr. Kajian-Faraji about other cosmetic dentistry options that best match your needs.
How are veneers placed?
You’ll first meet with Dr. Kajian-Faraji or another team member at La Jolla Dental Group to determine if you’re a good candidate for veneers. She’ll ask you about your medical history, perform a dental examination, and may complete imaging tests such as X-rays.
To get ready for this non-invasive procedure, Dr. Kajian-Faraji prepares your natural teeth prior to placing veneers by removing a small amount of enamel. She also makes a model of your teeth, and sends it to a lab where your custom veneers are made.
Once the veneers are ready, Dr. Kajian-Faraji permanently bonds them to the enamel of your natural teeth. After the veneers are in place, they remain intact for the long term.
How long do veneers last?
When you care for veneers properly they can last up to 15 years, but like natural teeth, veneers can chip, crack, stain, or decay before that time period. Proper oral hygiene ensures veneers last as long as possible. Dr. Kajian-Faraji replaces damaged veneers as needed after about 7 to 15 years.
How should I care for new veneers?
You’ll care for veneers the same way as you would with natural teeth. This includes:
- Avoiding nicotine, red wine, coffee, and teas to prevent stains
- Brushing your teeth twice daily
- Flossing every day
- Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash regularly
When you’re ready to obtain the white, bright smile you deserve, call La Jolla Dental Group today to book an appointment or schedule one online with Dr. Kajian-Faraji.
