What Happens When You Get Dental Veneers

Dental veneers have quickly become one of the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatments, and it’s easy to see why. With the ability to transform stained, chipped, or uneven teeth into a flawless smile, veneers provide a fast and long-lasting solution for those seeking to boost their confidence. 

As demand continues to rise, more people are asking: “What is the veneers process like?” And, “How do I care for my veneers?” From the first consultation to the final fitting, understanding each step can help ease any uncertainty and prepare you for the transformation. 

Read on to learn how veneers work, what to expect during the process, how they hold up over time, and where to find the best cosmetic dentist in San Francisco for dental veneers. 

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells specifically designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. These shells are carefully crafted from either porcelain or composite resin materials. The veneers are bonded directly to your existing teeth, creating an immediate improvement in your smile's appearance while maintaining a natural look. Dentists recommend veneers to address a variety of cosmetic concerns, including: 

• Discolored teeth that can’t be fixed with professional teeth whitening 
• Chipped teeth
• Gapped teeth 
• Slightly misaligned teeth that don’t qualify for orthodontic treatment 

How Do I Know If I'm a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Dental veneers are most suitable for individuals with healthy teeth and gums who wish to enhance the appearance of their smile. Before committing to veneers, your dentist will examine your mouth to confirm you don't have underlying issues that need addressing first. If you have severe tooth decay, signs of gum disease, or not enough healthy tooth enamel, veneers might not be your best option right away. These conditions typically need treatment before considering any cosmetic dental procedures.

What Can I Expect When Getting Veneers?

The journey to getting veneers typically involves three main steps:

1. Consultation and planning phase: During this initial step, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth, take dental X-rays to assess tooth structure, and discuss your goals for veneers. They may also take impressions or digital scans of your teeth to create a blueprint for your custom veneers. Some dentists can even provide a digital preview of your potential results. 
2. Tooth preparation phase: This step usually occurs during a separate appointment. During this visit, your dentist removes approximately 0.5mm of enamel from the front surface of each tooth receiving a veneer. This is about the thickness of a fingernail. Removing this enamel is necessary to make room for the veneer while maintaining a natural look. After reshaping your teeth, your dentist takes another impression to send to the dental lab and then places temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth while your permanent ones are being crafted, which typically takes one to two weeks. 
3. Veneer placement: During this last step, your dentist first checks the fit and color of each custom veneer, then thoroughly cleans your teeth before applying a special adhesive. The veneers are then precisely positioned on your teeth, and a light beam activates the cement for permanent dental bonding. Your dentist then makes final adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable and your veneers look natural before sending you home with your smile makeover complete. 

Compared to more extensive cosmetic dental procedures like dental crowns or dental implants, porcelain veneers are considered non-invasive since only a small amount of enamel is removed from the front surface of your teeth.

Is Getting Veneers Painful?

Getting dental veneers is a painless cosmetic treatment. During the tooth preparation phase, the best veneers dentist in San Francisco, Dr. Soto, will typically use a local anesthetic to numb the area, though many patients find the procedure comfortable enough that extensive anesthesia isn't necessary. 

You might experience some mild tooth sensitivity for a few days after your teeth are prepared, particularly to hot or cold temperatures, but this sensation usually fades quickly. Most patients return to their normal activities immediately after appointments with little to no recovery time needed.

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

The lifespan of your dental veneers largely depends on the material chosen and the level of care you provide. Porcelain veneers offer impressive durability, typically lasting between 10 and 15 years before needing replacement. Additionally, they resist stains and maintain their whiteness over time. 

Composite resin veneers, although initially more affordable, have a shorter lifespan of approximately five to seven years and tend to absorb stains from coffee, wine, and tobacco more readily than their porcelain counterparts. 

To maximize the longevity of either type, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential; This includes: 

• Brushing twice daily
• Flossing regularly
• Attending your regular dental checkups every six months

Regular dental checkups are important so your dentist can spot early signs of wear or damage and address minor issues before they compromise your veneers. This can potentially extend their useful life beyond the average timeframes.

Where to Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist in San Francisco

Your smile isn’t just part of your look; it’s part of your identity. At our San Francisco dental office, we treat it that way. Dr. Robert Soto combines technical precision with artistic vision to create veneers that look completely natural and reflect the best version of your smile. 

Every veneer treatment begins with a personalized plan designed to complement your features, enhance your confidence, and protect your long-term oral health. We use cutting-edge digital technology to ensure every detail is just right, and our expert team is here to make your experience smooth, informed, and comfortable. 

From the first consultation to the final reveal, we’re committed to delivering cosmetic results that are as refined and lasting as they are beautiful.

Dreaming of a flawless smile? Get the best dental veneers in San Francisco from the most reputable cosmetic dentist who puts your confidence first.