If you would like to change the color, shape, or proportions of selected teeth, veneers may be one option to consider. At Advanced Dental Concepts, we provide veneers with treatment planned around your oral health, tooth structure, and aesthetic goals. We begin with an evaluation to understand what you would like to change and whether veneers or another cosmetic approach is appropriate.
What Can Dental Veneers Address?
Veneers are thin, custom-made restorations that cover the front surfaces of selected teeth to change aspects of their appearance. They may be considered for teeth with discoloration, minor chips or wear, irregular shapes, or differences in size and proportion.Â
Veneers may also be considered for small gaps or selected concerns involving tooth shape and position. However, they do not move teeth or correct an underlying bite problem in the way orthodontic treatment does. If tooth position is the primary concern, we can discuss whether orthodontic treatment or another approach should be considered.
Not every cosmetic concern requires a veneer. The appropriate treatment depends on the condition of your teeth and what you would like to change.
How We Determine Whether Veneers Are Appropriate
Before recommending veneers, we examine the teeth, gums, bite, and existing dental work. We also assess the condition of the tooth structure and whether there are oral health concerns that could affect treatment.
Untreated tooth decay or gum disease should be addressed before veneer treatment so the teeth and surrounding tissues are in suitable condition for the planned restorations. Clenching or grinding is also considered because these forces can increase stress on veneers.
During the consultation, we discuss your goals and explain what veneers can reasonably change. This is also an opportunity to compare other options. For example, whitening may be more appropriate when tooth color is the primary concern, while bonding may be considered for certain localized chips or changes in tooth shape.
What Happens During Veneer Treatment?
Treatment begins with planning the shape, proportions, and other characteristics of the proposed restorations. Veneer placement involves removing some enamel to create space for the restoration. Because enamel is removed, veneer treatment is considered irreversible.
An impression or digital scan can be used to record the prepared teeth and plan the restorations. For porcelain veneers, these records may be used to create custom restorations that fit the prepared teeth.
Before final placement, the veneers are evaluated for fit, shape, and appearance. Adjustments can be made when appropriate before the restorations are bonded to the teeth. Treatment steps and the number of appointments can vary according to the individual case.
Caring for Veneers
Teeth with veneers still require regular oral hygiene because the natural tooth structure and surrounding gums remain important to long-term oral health. Continue brushing and cleaning between your teeth, including around the margins of the restorations.
Avoid using veneered teeth to bite fingernails, open packages, or chew hard objects that can place unnecessary force on the restorations. If you grind or clench teeth, discuss this with us so we can consider how it may affect your treatment.
Over time, a veneer may chip, crack, wear, or loosen and may eventually require repair or replacement. If you notice damage, discomfort, or a change in your bite, schedule an evaluation.
Veneer Care in Laguna Beach
Having comprehensive dental services under one roof allows us to consider veneers alongside other cosmetic, restorative, or orthodontic options when planning your care. Modern dental technology is also available when clinically appropriate to support evaluation and treatment planning.
We also consider your comfort during appointments. Massage dental chairs, noise-canceling headphones, and individual tablets are available for patients who would like additional comfort or distraction during their visits.
Our Laguna Beach office welcomes patients from Laguna Village, Arch Beach Heights, Emerald Bay, and Irvine Cove who would like to discuss veneers or other appropriate cosmetic dental options.
Discuss Whether Veneers Are Right for You
If you are considering veneers for discoloration, minor chips, wear, uneven tooth shape, or another appearance-related concern, schedule a consultation at our Laguna Beach office. We can take a look at your oral health, talk about your goals, and explain whether veneers or another cosmetic treatment may be appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Veneer treatment involves removing some enamel to accommodate the restoration, which makes the treatment irreversible.
Veneers may change the appearance of selected teeth with shape or minor positional concerns. They do not move teeth or correct an underlying orthodontic problem.
Veneers may be considered for certain discoloration concerns, but another option may be more appropriate depending on the cause and extent of the discoloration.
Yes. Veneers can chip, crack, wear, or loosen over time. Regular dental care also remains important because decay can still develop around or beneath a veneer.
