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Porcelain dental veneers are thin, ceramic shells that are placed over a damaged, misaligned, or stained tooth to conceal cosmetic issues and create a new appearance. Unlike dental crowns, they cover only the most visible portion of the affected tooth rather than the entire tooth. Veneers are one of the most effective and aesthetically gratifying remedies for teeth that are chipped, cracked, gapped, stained, misshaped, or even misaligned—often being incorporated in smile makeovers to create gorgeous smile transformations.

Renowned Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Kevin Sands, DDS can correct a range of dental issues with porcelain veneers and achieve a natural-looking solution to common problems affecting the appearance and function of your teeth. During the consultation process, Dr. Sands will review your personal cosmetic goals and recommend a treatment plan that can address your needs. With our innovative Planmeca ProMax® 3D imaging technology, each patient can view a dynamic digital image of their teeth and gums, allowing a comprehensive understanding of the treatment approach. This technology also facilitates doctor-patient communication and can ultimately lead to well-informed treatment decisions and a more satisfying final outcome.

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Veneers

What Happens During the Porcelain Veneers Procedure?

Treatment with porcelain dental veneers begins with a digital impression of your teeth taken with our Planmeca ProMax® 3D system. This impression will allow porcelain veneers to be custom-made for the affected teeth, ensuring a comfortable fit. After the veneer is designed, it is color-tinted to match the surrounding teeth—or to your aesthetic preference—and attached to the tooth with a durable cement. Depending upon the type of veneers you choose, you may be given temporary veneers while you wait approximately 7-10 days for the permanent veneers to be returned from the ceramist. The damaged tooth can then be concealed with a healthy-looking porcelain veneer and a rejuvenated appearance.

Dr. Sands uses his experience, as well as his aesthetic sensibilities, to design veneers that look both beautiful and natural. The color of porcelain veneers will not change over time, so your teeth can remain bright and vibrant.

Porcelain dental veneers can be an excellent way of addressing common problems with your teeth and creating a beautiful new smile with results that look and feel natural.

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Process

What Can Veneers Do?

The Veneers Process

Do Porcelain Veneers Hurt?

No, the porcelain veneers procedure is not considered painful. Patients may experience some sensitivity when the tooth is being prepared, but porcelain dental veneers can be applied with a local anesthetic or sedation dentistry techniques at our practice in Beverly Hills for a painless experience. Dr. Sands utilizes his considerable skill and experience to give patients the most relaxing, comfortable office visit possible.

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

When properly cared for, porcelain veneers can last for years, even decades. They are made with durable, stain-resistant material, which makes them strong, prevents them from changing color, and keeps your smile looking youthful. Practicing good daily oral hygiene (i.e., brushing and flossing regularly and scheduling routine oral exams) is the best way to maintain your results long-term. Patients who frequently clench their jaw or grind their teeth at night may consider a small oral appliance to protect the veneers during sleep.

We’ve transformed the smiles of countless patients, including many familiar celebrity faces
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Veneers were used to close gaps, straighten and brighten this patient’s smile.
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Smile Makeover achieved with Zoom! Teeth Whitening and porcelain dental veneers at Kevin Sands DDS office Beverly Hills, CA.

How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?

Porcelain veneers from Dr. Sands typically cost anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000 per tooth, on average. Since each porcelain veneers procedure is customized to meet the unique needs of the patient, the price varies from case to case. The final expense is calculated using a number of variables, including the number of veneers, type of veneers, and veneer placement. During the consultation process, Dr. Sands will perform an oral exam, discuss your cosmetic goals, design a custom treatment plan, and provide you with a precise quote for the procedure. Good candidates for porcelain veneers have healthy teeth and gums, and Dr. Sands may recommend a procedure to improve dental health beforehand, if necessary.

Though you may be able to find a cosmetic dentist who will perform the porcelain veneers procedure at a reduced cost, choosing a less experienced dentist can lead to poor results or costly complications in the future. With his artistic eye and scientific experience, Dr. Sands has worked with many entertainment stars over the years who have trusted him with their smiles.

Most of our patients consider porcelain veneers an investment in their oral health and beauty, and our office offers a number of payment options that can offer low monthly payments with low- to no-interest financing. Partner companies, such as CareCredit® and Enhance Patient Financing, can help patients find a financing option that fits comfortably within their budget. We also accept all major credit cards at our office for your convenience.

Why Should I Choose Dr. Sands for Porcelain Veneers?

When considering porcelain dental veneers, patients should look for a dentist with established credentials in cosmetic dentistry and a record of highly-satisfied patients. Dr. Kevin Sands has earned a stellar reputation for the exquisite, world-class results he creates with porcelain veneers. He has extensive experience in all aspects of cosmetic dentistry, with proven expertise in the design and placement of high-quality veneers.

In addition to having credentials and achievements that position him at the very top of his field, Dr. Sands is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry—an elite professional organization that drives innovation in aesthetic and restorative dentistry, upholds high standards of excellence for its members, and provides cutting-edge educational opportunities. As the trusted designer and caretaker behind many of the world’s most famous smiles, Dr. Sands’ skill, artistry, and personality have helped him become a favorite choice among individuals who desire a star-quality smile and the best in patient care.

During a consultation, you will have the opportunity to meet Dr. Sands, discuss your concerns, ask any questions you have, and learn about the best approach for achieving your smile goals. If you are considering a new smile with porcelain veneers, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sands to find out if he is the right cosmetic dentist for you!

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Dr. Sands

Are There Any Alternatives to Porcelain Veneers?

If you are not a good candidate for treatment with all porcelain veneers—due to some badly damaged, severely misshapen, decayed, or otherwise problematic teeth—Dr. Sands may recommend custom porcelain crowns to improve the health, strength, and appearance of each affected tooth. Instead of covering just the visible front surface of the tooth, like a thin veneer, a dental crown fits over the vulnerable body of the treated tooth like a cap to restore proper form and function while creating a more ideal appearance that blends with the surrounding teeth.

For individuals who do not want veneers but are interested in making minor, purely cosmetic improvements, cosmetic bonding may provide a suitable solution. Tooth-colored composite resin is incredibly versatile; however, this method does not yield results that are as long-lasting or shade-stable as porcelain veneers.

Ultimately, the ideal treatment option for you will depend on a variety of factors that you and Dr. Sands can discuss during your consultation. He will take the time to understand your dental needs and explain all of the options he offers that can achieve your goals.

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Alternatives

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Porcelain Veneers

Q: Do porcelain veneers look like natural teeth?

Absolutely! One key hallmark of Dr. Sands’ porcelain veneer work is that it looks incredibly natural. Each porcelain veneer is custom-designed and handcrafted to create the appearance of a beautifully enhanced tooth. The shape, size, color, and luster of every veneer is meticulously planned to blend in with the surrounding teeth and deliver a star-quality smile. Additionally, Dr. Sands ensures that every veneer fits and bonds to the prepared teeth precisely so that the borders of the restoration are imperceptible.

Q: Can I get just one veneer or will I need a whole set of veneers?

Patients may opt to receive one veneer, a series of several veneers, or an entire smile makeover based on their unique needs, goals, and budget. During a consultation, Dr. Sands can evaluate your smile to develop a personalized plan for your veneers treatment. Patients who choose to have one veneer placed are typically those who desire to conceal a single tooth that is deeply discolored, misshapen, or damaged (chipped, cracked, etc.). In these instances, Dr. Sands is able to color-match the new veneer to the surrounding teeth for natural-looking results. For some patients, the best possible outcome may require that the surrounding teeth also receive veneers to make the most consistent and visually appealing results. Just as every patient is unique, each veneers treatment is unique—to learn about the best approach for enhancing your smile, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sands.

Q: Are porcelain veneers permanent or reversible?

The longevity of your porcelain veneers procedure will depend upon the type of veneers that are used to enhance your smile. When extremely thin, minimal-prep or no-prep veneers are placed on the teeth, very little, if any, tooth enamel is removed to accommodate the thickness of the veneer. Because of the preparation that is done for these veneers, the procedure is often considered “reversible”—meaning that the porcelain veneers could potentially be removed later if desired. With traditional types of veneers, more of the healthy tooth material must be removed to complete the procedure. If a patient wants to remove their veneers in the future, this degree of preparation requires that they must be replaced by new veneers or another type of restoration to maintain adequate tooth protection, strength, and structure. The permanence or reversibility of your personalized veneers procedure is definitely an important topic to discuss with Dr. Sands during your appointment. Dr. Sands typically encourages patients to consider porcelain veneers to be a long-term commitment that yields long-term results.

Q: Are porcelain veneers covered by insurance?

Porcelain veneers are not typically covered by insurance because they are considered to be a purely cosmetic procedure. In some cases, when veneers are placed for both cosmetic and restorative purposes, insurance may offer some coverage. To find out if your insurance plan benefits apply to your veneers treatment plan, our experienced office team can check your coverage. If your plan offers any financial assistance, our team will be able to provide you with an estimate for your out-of-pocket costs.

Q: Will porcelain veneers change the way I talk?

Porcelain veneers that are properly placed generally do not affect the way someone speaks. It may take a couple of weeks to adjust to new veneers, but it should not change any speech patterns. After two to three weeks, most patients find that the veneers feel completely natural in the mouth and don’t even notice them while talking or eating.

Q: Do porcelain veneers stain?

Porcelain veneers are designed to be stain-resistant. Unlike natural teeth, veneers are made up of non-porous porcelain material that is not as susceptible to discoloration or staining. For this reason, most patients are able to enjoy their whiter smile for many years as long as they take excellent care of their teeth and maintain good oral hygiene. It may also be beneficial to avoid using tobacco products and consuming staining agents, such as coffee and red wine, that are known to cause tooth discoloration.

Q: Can porcelain veneers be whitened?

Over-the-counter and professional teeth whitening treatments will not lighten the shade of your porcelain veneers. Depending on your needs and aesthetic goals, your veneers will either be color-matched to your natural teeth or customized to your desired level of whiteness. We often recommend that patients who want their veneers whiter than their natural teeth to undergo teeth whitening treatments before the veneers process. This way, the porcelain veneers can blend in with the surrounding teeth. If you desire whiter veneers in the future, then you will most likely need to replace them with a new set.

Q: Are porcelain veneers a good alternative to braces?

For patients who desire a straighter smile, porcelain veneers can be an ideal solution for masking the appearance of mild to moderate misalignment, gaps, and overcrowding. Unlike braces, the veneers process does not require lengthy orthodontic treatment. That said, patients who have more severe teeth misalignment or bite problems may be better candidates for orthodontic solutions – such as Invisalign®.

Q: How strong are porcelain veneers?

High-quality porcelain veneers that are crafted from state-of-the-art ceramic materials are considered to be extremely durable and long-lasting. When porcelain veneers are properly cared for, protected from excessive bite forces (through the use of a nightguard), and placed on strong healthy teeth, they can remain undamaged and firmly bonded for decades. While there may be some variation in veneer strength based on the specific material and fabrication techniques used to create the veneer—as well as the veneer thickness and position of the treated tooth in the mouth—patients can trust Dr. Sands to design a customized treatment plan that maximizes the beauty, durability, and longevity of their new smile.

Q: How long do porcelain veneers take to get?

The porcelain veneers process typically takes place over three visits to Dr. Sands’ office. During the first visit, the smile is evaluated for health and aesthetics, candidacy for veneers is determined, and a customized smile design and treatment plan is created. Next, patients return to the office for the preparation of their teeth and the placement of temporary veneers (which remain in place until the permanent veneers are crafted in the dental laboratory). Finally, when the permanent veneers are received, the patient returns to the office to have the temporaries removed and the porcelain veneers bonded in place to complete the smile. Variations of this plan may be recommended for patients who require additional treatments prior to veneer placement to improve oral health.

Q: What is the most common reason to have porcelain veneers replaced?

There are many reasons that patients come to Dr. Sands to replace their veneers. Most often, individuals seek Dr. Sands’ expertise in upgrading their old veneers from another dentist. Various factors can contribute to a patient’s desire to replace veneers; some of these include:

If you are considering replacing your current veneers with new veneers, Dr. Sands is the ideal choice for ensuring a beautiful, satisfying smile.

Q: Can I preview my smile before my porcelain veneers are placed?

Dr. Sands always includes your goals, priorities, and input in every stage of the smile design and porcelain veneers process. Before any treatment is completed, you will be able to review digital imagery of your new smile and give your approval. When your custom temporaries are placed, this will be your opportunity to “try out” your new smile—if there is anything you want to change about the way your smile looks, Dr. Sands can make adjustments to the design of your permanent veneers before they are crafted.

Q: Will I need gum contouring before getting porcelain veneers?

While patients do not need to undergo gum contouring (also known as a “gum lift) in order to have veneers, the procedure often provides extra aesthetic enhancement. When performed by an experienced dentist, a gum lift can reduce excess gum tissue and create a more harmonious balance between the gums and exposed teeth. If you are interested in incorporating gum contouring into your treatment plan, feel free to discuss this with Dr. Sands during your consultation.

Q: Will veneers increase the risk of cavities or other issues?

Veneers should not have any bearing on the development of cavities or decay. In fact, as practicing good oral hygiene is the most important part of maintaining your veneers, taking care of your veneers can actually help prevent cavities. For this reason and many others, it is imperative that you brush, floss, and attend exams and cleanings regularly.

Q: Will I need to change my diet with porcelain veneers?

Although there is no specialized diet for porcelain veneers, we advise you to be wary of certain foods and drinks that may stain or damage your veneers. These include nuts, ice cubes, red wine, coffee, and berries. If you do choose to consume anything that is advised against, we urge you to do so in moderation and to avoid biting down too strongly on any hard, dense foods.

Q: How will my porcelain veneer(s) be matched to my other teeth?

One of the biggest benefits of quality porcelain veneers is their ability to seamlessly match surrounding teeth. Dr. Sands uses the advanced Planmeca ProMax® 3D imaging technology to create veneers, and this innovative system allows patients to preview their results before the restorations are placed. Once the proper fit has been established, the veneers are tinted so they blend with the rest of your teeth and bring out your smile’s natural shine.

Additionally, if patients wish to have a brighter smile, they may benefit from undergoing Zoom!® teeth whitening prior to the placement of their veneers. After the whitening is complete, Dr. Sands can match the veneers to the beautiful new shade of your teeth.

For more information regarding porcelain veneers, please contact our practice to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sands.

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