Veneers FAQs in Beverly Hills

Frequently Asked Questions

Get expert answers from Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Dr. Daniel Naysan of Bedford Dental Group. This comprehensive FAQ covers the questions patients ask most often, from the basics of veneers to candidacy, costs, and care.

Veneers are one of the most requested cosmetic treatments at BDG, and patients often share the same concerns: how they work, whether they are painful, how long they last, and whether they are the right choice for their smile. This guide is designed to give you clear, trustworthy information so you can feel confident moving forward.

General Veneers Questions

1. What are dental veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed on the front surfaces of teeth to improve their color, shape, size, and alignment. They are often used to correct chips, gaps, stains, uneven edges, and minor crookedness. Veneers are bonded securely to your enamel, creating a natural and long-lasting improvement to your smile.

2. What are veneers made of?

Veneers are typically made from porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain offers the most natural translucency and durability. Composite is a more affordable option created from layered resin material.

3. How do veneers work?

Your cosmetic dentist designs and places thin restorations that blend with your smile. After light enamel preparation, each veneer is bonded in place using a strong dental adhesive. When done properly, veneers feel like your natural teeth.

4. Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are considered a permanent cosmetic treatment because most porcelain veneers require some enamel removal. Once a tooth has been prepared for a veneer, it will always require a covering. With proper care, veneers can last a decade or longer.

5. How long do veneers last?

Porcelain veneers often last 10 to 15 years. High-quality veneers placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist can last even longer with good home care and routine cleanings.

Composite veneers typically last 4 to 7 years.

Types of Veneers

1. What is the difference between porcelain and composite veneers?

Porcelain veneers are crafted from durable ceramic and offer superior stain resistance, translucency, and longevity. Composite veneers are sculpted directly on the tooth using resin, which makes them more affordable but less durable.

2. What are no-prep veneers?

No-prep veneers are ultra-thin restorations that require little to no enamel removal. They can be a great option for patients with minor cosmetic concerns who want a less invasive approach.

3. What are Lumineers?

Lumineers are a brand of no-prep veneers made from Cerinate porcelain. They are thinner than traditional veneers and often require minimal preparation. They are best for mild cosmetic enhancements.

4. What are DURAthin veneers?

DURAthin veneers are another type of minimal-prep veneer designed to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible. They are custom-made from high-quality ceramic and favored by patients who want reversible or conservative treatment options.

5. What are zirconia veneers?

Zirconia veneers are thicker and stronger than traditional porcelain. They are generally reserved for back teeth or cases where a patient needs a restoration with added durability.

Cost and Financing Veneers

1. How much do veneers cost in Beverly Hills?

Porcelain veneers in Beverly Hills typically range from $2,500 to $4,500 per tooth due to the level of artistry, materials, technology, and clinician expertise involved.

Composite veneers often range from $800 to $1,500 per tooth.

2. Does insurance cover veneers?

Veneers are considered cosmetic and are not covered by most dental insurance plans.

3. Does Bedford Dental Group offer payment plans?

Yes. BDG offers financing options that allow patients to spread out the cost of treatment. Many patients choose monthly payment plans to make larger smile makeovers more accessible.

4. Why are veneers more expensive in Beverly Hills?

Beverly Hills is home to some of the most experienced cosmetic dentists, advanced dental labs, and premium materials. Patients often travel to the area for the high level of precision and aesthetic outcomes.

The Veneer Process

1. What happens during a veneer consultation?

A consultation includes digital imaging, a smile analysis, photos, and a discussion of your aesthetic goals. Dr. Naysan will examine your teeth, bite, and gum health to determine whether veneers are the right option.

2. How many appointments does it take to get veneers?

Most patients need two visits. The first visit includes preparation and temporary veneers. The second visit includes placement of the final porcelain veneers.

3. Do veneers require shaving your teeth?

Traditional porcelain veneers require light enamel reduction. No-prep options require little or no tooth modification.

4. Are veneers painful?

Patients typically feel little to no discomfort during the process. Local anesthetic is used when necessary, and temporary sensitivity is normal.

5. Can I get veneers in one day?

Some cases can be completed in a single appointment using advanced in-office milling technology. Most cosmetic veneer smile makeovers use custom porcelain created in a dental lab.

Candidacy for Veneers

1. Who is a good candidate for veneers?

Ideal candidates have healthy gums, good enamel, and cosmetic concerns such as stains, chips, gaps, or mild misalignment.

2. Can I get veneers with crooked teeth?

Mild crookedness can be corrected with veneers. More significant misalignment may require orthodontics first.

3. Can I get veneers with missing teeth?

No. Veneers require a natural tooth to bond to. Patients with missing teeth typically need implants, bridges, or other replacement options.

4. Can I get veneers if I grind my teeth?

Patients with bruxism may still be candidates but often need a nightguard to protect their veneers.

Care and Maintenance for Veneers

1. How do I take care of veneers?

Brush twice daily, floss daily, and maintain regular cleanings. Avoid biting hard objects or using your teeth as tools.

2. Can veneers stain?

Porcelain veneers resist staining very well. Composite veneers can stain more easily.

3. Can veneers fall off?

It is uncommon, but veneers can debond if the bond weakens. If this happens, contact your dentist for evaluation and reattachment.

4. How often should veneers be replaced?

Porcelain veneers typically need replacement every 10 to 15 years. Composite veneers may need replacement sooner.

Results and Expectations of Veneers

1. Do veneers look natural?

Yes. High-quality porcelain veneers reflect light similarly to enamel and can be customized in shape, shade, and translucency.

2. Can veneers fix gaps?

Veneers are often used to close small to moderate gaps between teeth.

3. Can veneers change my face shape?

Improved tooth proportions can subtly enhance facial symmetry and support lip structure.

4. Do veneers affect speech?

Any temporary changes resolve as you adjust to the restorations.

Veneers vs Other Treatments

1. Veneers vs crowns: What is the difference?

Crowns cover the entire tooth and are used for strength and protection. Veneers cover only the front surface and are used for cosmetic improvements.

2. Veneers vs bonding: Which is better?

Bonding is more affordable but less durable. Veneers offer superior aesthetics and longevity.

3. Veneers vs Invisalign: Which should I choose?

Invisalign corrects alignment. Veneers improve cosmetic issues. Some patients use both.

Risks and Considerations of Veneers

1. Do veneers damage your natural teeth?

When placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist, veneers preserve most of the natural structure. Proper technique is key.

2. Can veneers cause sensitivity?

Temporary sensitivity is normal and typically resolves.

3. What happens if I do not like my veneers?

Adjustments can be made to shape and color. In rare cases, refinements or replacements may be recommended.

4. Are veneers reversible?

Traditional veneers are not reversible due to enamel preparation. No-prep options may be reversed in some cases.

5. Are cheap veneers safe?

Low-cost veneers abroad may use inferior materials and shortcuts in preparation, which increases the risk of complications.