Dental Veneers 101: What to Expect During & After Treatment

The first time you see your reflection after getting veneers, it’s often the smallest details that catch your eye. The smooth edges, the even shape of your new teeth, the natural color that fits your smile just right. Nearly one in three adults feels embarrassed about their teeth’s appearance, which may explain why cosmetic dental treatments have surged in popularity across most age groups. 

If veneers are something you’ve thought about, learning what to expect during and after the process can make all the difference. Read on to get a breakdown of each step from the best dentist in Redwood City, including answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers? 

Veneers are a great option for people who want a more uniform, natural-looking smile, but it’s important to ensure your oral health is in good condition. First, you’ll need a dentist to evaluate your oral health to make sure you have no signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or bite alignment issues that could interfere with treatment. The surface of your natural tooth also matters. Veneers are bonded directly to your existing teeth, so there needs to be enough healthy tooth enamel for them to hold securely. Those who wish to replace missing teeth should look to dental implants as a natural-looking treatment. 

How to Prepare for Veneers

Preparing for veneers starts with a detailed consultation at a dental office to go over your goals and take dental X-rays, digital scans, and photos that will help design your future smile and show your before and after. During this visit, you’ll also discuss the number of veneers you want, the type of material you want your veneers to be made from, and whether professional teeth whitening of your natural teeth beforehand makes sense for a consistent shade.

What to Expect When Getting Your Veneers

Getting veneers takes a few carefully planned appointments: 

• First, a small amount of enamel from the surface of your tooth needs to be removed to make space for each veneer. Your dentist will remove only a thin layer, often no thicker than a fingernail. A local anesthetic keeps the experience comfortable.
• After that, dental impressions are taken to capture every curve of your teeth. If your veneers are being crafted in a lab, temporary veneers are placed to keep your smile looking natural in the meantime. 
• Once the permanent veneers are ready, they’re bonded one by one with dental bonding, and your dentist checks the fit, shade, and bite before polishing them smooth. 

Veneers come in two common material options: 

• Composite veneers: Less expensive but also less durable, so they may need replacement much sooner. They last around five to 10 years on average 
• Porcelain veneers: This type is more expensive but also looks more natural and is far more durable. They last around 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer, with good care. 

How to Care for Your Veneers and Keep Them Looking Beautiful for Years 

Once your veneers are in place, your mouth may feel slightly different as your tongue adjusts to the new shape and texture of your teeth. Mild tooth sensitivity and gum tissue tenderness for the first few days are normal, so soft foods and lukewarm drinks are best until things settle. 

To keep your veneers looking like the day you got them: 

• Avoid biting into hard foods like ice or nutshells
• Get a nightguard if you tend to clench your jaw or grind your teeth in your sleep
• Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily ensures the natural tooth structure under your veneer stays healthy and lowers your risk factors for developing gum disease or needing a root canal in the future
• Although veneers can’t decay, your natural tooth underneath can, which is why brushing and flossing, attending regular dental checkups, and getting regular professional cleanings are all essential

Over time, natural wear or small chips may call for replacement, but staying mindful of daily habits and keeping up with dental visits will help your veneers stay smooth, strong, and natural-looking for years to come.

Where to Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Redwood City for Dental Veneers

The moment you catch your reflection and see your new smile, you’ll understand why we love what we do. At Redwood City Dentistry, we believe smiles are a reflection of confidence and self-expression. This is why our team takes the time to understand your goals, facial features, and natural tooth shade so that every veneer looks like it was always meant to be there. We use high-quality materials and precise digital imaging to design veneers that blend seamlessly with your smile, all while keeping your comfort and long-term oral health in mind.