Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of teeth — a cosmetic dentistry option for improving shape, color, and size. At our Los Angeles office, Dr. Tyler Ghadoushi designs veneers to look like your own teeth, usually over two to three visits.
WHAT ARE VENEERS?
A veneer is a thin layer of dental porcelain made by a dental lab to fit the front surface of a tooth. Once bonded in place, it covers the visible side of the tooth, so its color and shape determine how that tooth looks.
Because veneers cover several concerns at once, they are often chosen when someone wants to change more than color — for example, evening out uneven lengths, closing small spaces, or covering chips on the front teeth.
VENEER OPTIONS
The best approach depends on your teeth, your bite, and how much change you want. Dr. Ghadoushi will explain which options make sense for you.
A thin layer of enamel is removed so the veneer sits flush and doesn't look bulky. This approach allows the widest range of changes in shape and color.
When teeth are small or slightly set back, little or no enamel may need to be removed. This option isn't right for every case, so your dentist will evaluate it.
Tooth-colored resin shaped directly on the teeth, similar to dental bonding. Usually less costly, but more prone to staining and wear than porcelain.
Several front teeth are treated together so their color, length, and shape match. The number of veneers depends on how much of your smile shows.
One chipped, darkened, or misshapen tooth can be covered with a single veneer that is carefully shaded to match the teeth beside it.
Older veneers that have chipped, stained at the edges, or no longer match can be evaluated and replaced when needed.
THE VENEER PROCESS
The process starts with a consultation. Dr. Ghadoushi examines your teeth and gums, takes photos and digital scans, and talks with you about the shape, length, and shade you want. Any cavities or gum problems are usually treated before veneer work begins.
At the preparation visit, the teeth are numbed and a thin layer of enamel is removed as needed, then scanned so the lab can make your veneers. Temporary veneers may be placed in the meantime. Before final bonding, the veneers are tried in so you and Dr. Ghadoushi can check color, shape, and fit, and adjustments are made before they are bonded in place.
OUR VENEER APPROACH
Good veneers start with careful planning. These are the steps we focus on so your veneers look natural and hold up well.
Shape, length, and shade are discussed and recorded before any enamel is removed, so the preparation matches the planned result.
Your veneers are made by a dental lab from the scans and notes we send, then checked for fit and color before bonding.
Only as much enamel is removed as the planned veneers require, and some cases need very little.
Financing through CareCredit, Sunbit, or Cherry can spread the cost of veneers over time for qualified patients.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Answers to common questions about porcelain veneers at our Los Angeles office.
Porcelain veneers often last many years, and many last more than a decade. Lifespan varies by patient and depends on your bite, habits like grinding or nail-biting, and home care. Wearing a night guard if you grind and keeping regular cleanings can help them last.
Traditional veneers are generally considered permanent, because the enamel removed during preparation does not grow back. Once a tooth is prepared, it will usually need a veneer or other covering going forward. Minimal-prep veneers remove less enamel, but they may not suit every case.
Veneers can make mildly uneven or rotated teeth look straighter. For more noticeable crowding or bite problems, orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign is often recommended first. Since our office offers both, we can help you compare the options.
Bonding is usually quicker, less costly, and needs little or no enamel removal, so it suits small chips and gaps. Porcelain veneers involve more planning and preparation but tend to resist staining better and are often chosen for larger changes across several teeth. Dr. Ghadoushi can help you weigh both for your smile.
Cost depends on how many teeth are treated, the type of veneer, and the work needed beforehand. Dental insurance usually does not cover veneers placed for cosmetic reasons. We will give you a written estimate at your consultation and can explain financing options.
Often, yes. The shade of a porcelain veneer is set when it is made and will not lighten with whitening later. If you want brighter teeth overall, whitening your natural teeth first lets the veneers be matched to your new shade.
Good candidates usually have healthy teeth and gums and enough enamel for the veneers to bond to. Heavy grinding, active decay, or gum disease may need to be treated first, or may make another option a better fit. Dr. Ghadoushi will evaluate your teeth before recommending veneers.
Find out whether porcelain veneers are a good fit for your smile. Visit our Los Angeles office to talk through your goals, options, and costs with Dr. Ghadoushi.