Are porcelain veneers permanent?

Porcelain veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic dentistry treatment. The process involves removing a small amount of enamel from your teeth to ensure a proper fit and bonding of the veneers. As a result, the process is irreversible. However, dental veneers can last for many years with proper care, but they may eventually need replacement due to normal wear and tear.

Are porcelain veneers glued on?

Porcelain veneers are bonded to the natural tooth using a composite bonding material (you can think of it as a strong, 100% non-toxic glue). It sets in just a few seconds and is incredibly strong and long-lasting.

Can I remove porcelain veneers?

Yes, porcelain veneers can be removed. However, removing veneers can damage the underlying tooth structure, as some enamel is removed during the initial preparation process. If you decide to remove your veneers, it's important to consult with your dentist to discuss the potential risks and alternative treatment options.

Porcelain Veneer Process in Studio City & Los Angeles, CA

Revitalize Your Smile with Porcelain Veneer Placement

Are you tired of hiding your smile due to chipped, cracked, discolored, or misaligned teeth? Porcelain veneers offer a stunning solution to transform your smile and boost your self-confidence.

Dr. Lavi, a highly skilled dentist in Studio City and Los Angeles, CA, is experienced in performing porcelain veneer procedures. With years of experience and a commitment to patient satisfaction, Dr. Lavi offers top-quality dental care.

Ready to transform your smile? Call our Los Angeles office at (213) 623-2212 or our Studio City office at (818) 980-8472. We welcome patients from the surrounding areas of Sherman Oaks, Beverly Hills, and Encino.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including chipped, cracked, discolored, misaligned, or uneven teeth.

The Steps to Getting Porcelain Veneers

Initial Consultation

The first step in receiving traditional porcelain veneers is an initial consultation with our Los Angeles & Studio City dentist. During this appointment, you’ll discuss your goals for your smile and determine if porcelain veneers are the right option for you. Dr. Sam Lavi will examine your teeth and take digital dental X-rays to ensure that your teeth are healthy enough for the procedure.

Preparation

Once you and our Los Angeles & Studio City dentist have decided that veneers are the best option for you, the next step is preparation. They’ll remove a small amount of enamel from the surface of your teeth to make room for the custom porcelain veneers. This is typically done using a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Your dentist will then take impressions of your teeth to create veneers that fit perfectly.

Impressions and Temporary Veneers

After the preparation, they’ll take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab where your veneers will be fabricated. In the meantime, your Los Angeles & Studio City dentist will place temporary veneers on your teeth to protect them and to give you an idea of what your final result will look like. Temporary veneers aren’t as durable as permanent veneers, so make sure to be careful with them.

Bonding and Veneer Placement

Once your porcelain veneers are ready, you’ll return to Dr. Sam A. Lavi for the bonding process. Your dentist will remove the temporary veneers and clean your teeth. They’ll place the porcelain veneers on your teeth and check the fit and color, ensuring they look exactly how you envisioned. Adjustments can be made at this stage if necessary.

Once the permanent veneers are in place, your dentist will use a special light to harden the bonding material, which secures the final veneers in place. You’ll leave the office with a brand-new, beautiful smile.

Follow-up Appointments

After the bonding process, our dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your veneers and ensure they’re properly bonded and functioning correctly. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure the longevity of your porcelain veneers.

Aftercare for Porcelain Veneer Placement

Proper aftercare is essential for the longevity and success of your porcelain veneers. Here are some tips to follow:

Avoid Hard Foods: For the first few days, stick to soft foods to avoid putting excessive pressure on your newly placed veneers.
Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle fluoride toothpaste.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of your veneers and address any issues promptly.
Avoid Bad Habits: Refrain from bad habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can negatively impact the longevity of your veneers.
Protect Your Teeth: Avoid biting down on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, as this can damage your veneers.

Cost of Porcelain Veneer Placement

The cost of porcelain veneers can vary depending on several factors, including:

Number of Veneers: The more veneers you need, the higher the cost.
Complexity of the Procedure: If your teeth require significant preparation or if you have complex dental needs, the cost may increase.
Dentist’s Fees: The fees charged by your dentist can vary based on their experience, location, and the level of care provided.
Material Costs: The type of porcelain used and other materials involved in the procedure can also affect the overall cost.

Consult with Dr. Lavi to get an accurate estimate of the cost for your specific case. They can provide a detailed breakdown of the fees involved and discuss any financing options that may be available.