If you’re not super happy with your smile yet you’re not a candidate for braces — or you just don’t want braces — getting veneers could be the perfect solution for you. Veneers are custom-made shells made from ultra-thin porcelain designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They are placed over your natural teeth to conceal any imperfections and give you the perfect smile. 

There are several things you should consider before deciding to get veneers. Read on to discover popular types, how they’re placed, and where to find expert cosmetic dentistry in Valencia and Santa Clarita. 

1. Veneers Are Permanent, but Temporary Ones Are Available

Getting veneers is a big decision because they are permanent. Once they are bonded to your teeth, they cannot be removed without damaging the underlying tooth structure. Therefore, it's important to take your time and carefully consider whether they are the right option for you.

However, temporary acrylic veneers can be placed on your teeth in some cases. Acrylic veneers are not as durable as permanent veneers, but they can give you an idea of what your new smile will look like and help you cover imperfections quickly while you wait for your permanent veneers to be fabricated. Acrylic veneers are not a long-term solution because they can break or chip easily. 

2. There Are Different Kinds of Veneers

Before getting veneers, it is important to know that there are different types available. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you’re sure to find one that works best for what you need. Common types include: 

  • Porcelain veneers 
  • Composite resin veneers
  • Lumineers — a thinner type of porcelain 

3. You Don't Need to Get Veneers on All of Your Teeth

Another big question that most people have is, “Are veneers expensive?” While full-mouth veneers are available, but many people only get them on their front teeth or the teeth that are visible when smiling — this is helpful if you are considering the cost.

4. Veneers Are Meant to Last

One of the first questions you may have is, “Do veneers last forever?” The answer depends on how well you care for your teeth. Veneers are a long-term investment in your smile as they are made from durable materials that are designed to withstand the daily wear and tear of normal use. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years — even the rest of your life.

5. Veneers Are Custom-Made

No one has the same teeth, so no one should have the same veneers. Each one is custom-made through a highly specialized process that begins at your dentist's office. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab where they will be fabricated to fit your unique mouth and give you the best smile.

Being custom-made also ensures that they fit your mouth perfectly and are designed to blend in seamlessly with your other teeth.

6. Veneers Can Chip and Crack Like a Regular Tooth

Caring for veneers is similar to how you care for your natural teeth. Like your natural teeth, veneers can chip or crack under certain circumstances. One of the most common causes of chipping or cracking is biting down on hard objects — such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies. You should also avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles, as this can also cause damage.

Another factor that can contribute to chipping or cracking is teeth grinding or clenching. If you do this unconsciously, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect them while you sleep.

7. Veneers Can Fix Several Dental Issues

Veneers in Santa Clarita are a great option for fixing a wide range of dental issues, including:

  • Discolored teeth
  • Worn down teeth
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Gapped teeth
  • Misaligned teeth

Veneers in Valencia and Santa Clarita can be a great alternative to orthodontic treatments for some mild dental problems — they can even give you a straighter smile without the hassle of braces in some cases.

8. Some People Can't Get Veneers

While veneers are a great solution for many people looking to improve their smile, there are some cases where they may not be the best option. Here are a few reasons why some people may not be able to get them:

  • You have significant dental decay 
  • You have gum disease — also called periodontal disease
  • You have thin tooth enamel 

9. Veneers Are Not the Same as Dental Implants

Veneers and dental implants are two different dental procedures. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are anchored in your jawbone to support a replacement tooth.

10. Choosing the Right Dentist Is Important

Getting veneers is a big decision that will affect your smile for the rest of your life. Choosing the right dentist is important to ensure that you get the best results. A few things to keep in mind when selecting a dentist for veneers in Santa Clarita is to look for a dentist who has expert-level experience in cosmetic dentistry — including veneer placement.

Where to Find the Best Veneers in Santa Clarita 

Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. That’s why using the best cosmetic dentist in SoCal is important. If you’re considering where to get veneers from a Valencia or Santa Clarita dentist, the doctors at SoCal Dental of Valencia are here to help you get that flawless smile you’ve always wanted through veneers or multiple other cosmetic dentistry options. 

SoCal Dental provides personalized plans and painless cosmetic dentistry with state-of-the-art technology for patients in Valencia, Santa Clarita, and surrounding Southern California areas. Dr. Danny Aframian, Dr. Homan Shamoeil, and Dr. Sherry Solouki also offer comprehensive dental care, including orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and periodontics. 

Ready for a confident smile with natural-looking veneers in Valencia and Santa Clarita?