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veneers

Dentals veneers have gotten a bad rap over the years. They’ve been regarded as high-maintenance, unnatural looking, and causing heightened tooth sensitivity — but how much of that holds true today? The truth is: very little. A go-to treatment for people looking to conceal a damaged tooth or enhance an entire smile, veneers have come a long way. 

## **What Are Dental Veneers?**
[Dental veneers](https://aedit.com/procedure/veneers) are custom-made shells that are designed to cover natural teeth to improve their appearance. The thin shells are bonded to the front of the tooth and are commonly made from porcelain or resin. With the help of a dentist, patients are able to choose the shape, size, length, color, and spacing of their new teeth. The goal of dental veneers is to transform the appearance of the teeth to create a natural-looking smile. While veneers are an option for [anyone looking to enhance their smile](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-really-like-to-get-veneers), they can be a life-changing procedure for those with chipped, broken, or misshapen teeth.

## **What’s Different About Modern Veneers?** 
Believe it or not, porcelain veneers have been around for nearly a century. Originally serving as a temporary way to enhance the smiles of actors and Hollywood-types, their popularity and purpose is now widespread — and the technology has come a long way. 

The materials used for the caps and the techniques used for bonding have improved results and made veneers longer lasting. Today, you can choose from traditional veneers and so-called ‘minimal-prep’ or ‘no-prep’ veneers. With the classic veneers, a dentist will still shave off a small amount of tooth enamel — though significantly less than the former process. For minimal and no-prep veneers, little, if any, shaving is required. Instead, the veneer is bonded to the natural tooth. With the new bonding agents and proper care, veneers are expected to last upwards of two decades before needing to be replaced.  

## **Debunking Common Veneer Myths**
Even with all the progress that has been made, there are still plenty of misconceptions about the quality and effect of veneers. To better understand how modern dentistry has improved the procedure and results, The AEDITION asked two of the foremost experts in the field. Here, Beverly Hills-based cosmetic dentists [Anjali Rajpal, DMD](https://aedit.com/provider/anjali-rajpal-428), and [Sam Saleh, DDS](https://aedit.com/provider/sam-saleh-3266) to debunk the most common myths about veneers.  

### **MYTH 1: My natural teeth will be gone**
**Answer**: No, new techniques require less removal of the tooth structure than ever before. 

**Dr. Rajpal**: Porcelain veneers are facings of teeth which require minimal removal of tooth structure from the front and the edges of teeth. To achieve the best bonding results in the long term, the preparation should remain in the enamel layer and not go too deep. Most of the original tooth structure will remain intact. Typically, the reduction of tooth structure is around 0.3 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters,  but can vary from zero to one millimeter depending on how much of a shade change is needed and how much pre-existing wear has already occurred.
 
**Dr. Saleh**: I specialize in no-prep and minimal-prep veneers. This essentially means that I remove the minimal tooth structure required for the thickness of the porcelain veneers. The digital technology utilized in my practice makes it possible to design the teeth with extraordinary precision ahead of time. Since I know the end result before the preparation, I am able to be specific and conservative with any removal of natural tooth structure.
 
### **MYTH 2: I can only get veneers on my front teeth**
**Answer**: Depending on a patient’s teeth and aesthetic goals, veneers can be placed on one tooth or many.
 
**Dr. Saleh**: As a facial aesthetic dentist, each patient I work with presents a unique canvas to create a smile that is distinctive to their individual features. I aim to achieve a result that is both beautiful and functional. For some patients, that may mean that they need an individual tooth worked on. For others, it may require a full mouth reconstruction. As an average, I would say 10 veneers on the upper arch are most common.
 
**Dr. Rajpal**: Every case is unique and has to be evaluated according to the health and color of tooth structure, as well as facial form. I have done many cases where only one veneer was actually needed, and we were able to match it extremely well by working with a high-caliber lab and taking a proper custom shade. However, in many cases, it’s a good idea to see how wide a smile is corner to corner and veneer the visible teeth to achieve the most uniform look. 
 
### **MYTH 3: If I get veneers, my teeth will look stained**
**Answer**: Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers will not stain — though the same cannot be said of their composite counterparts.

**Dr. Rajpal**: Composite bonding and natural tooth structure can stain over time, however, porcelain veneers are a solid sheet of glass. They are non-porous so they cannot absorb stains. 
 
**Dr. Saleh**: The longevity and aesthetics of the veneers are directly proportional to the quality of the materials used and its fabrication process. I am fortunate to have a dedicated team of laboratory technicians and master ceramists who work exclusively for me in my in-house laboratory. This way, I control the process from beginning to end ensuring high-quality function and aesthetics. I work exclusively with various forms of porcelain that are custom glazed. This makes the material impervious to stains, unlike natural tooth structure which continues to absorb stains as we age.
 
### **MYTH 4: My teeth will become more sensitive**
**Answer**: Assuming the procedure is performed properly by a qualified provider, any initial sensitivity should resolve.

**Dr. Saleh**: Sensitivity after placement of veneers depends highly on the individual patient and his or her pre-existing conditions of the teeth. In our experience, those patients who do experience sensitivity find it is for a short period and do not require further treatment. In many cases, patients who experienced sensitivity from their natural teeth reported that, after completing porcelain veneer treatment, it greatly reduced their sensitivity to hot and cold over the long term.
 
**Dr. Rajpal**: If the preparation of the teeth are done conservatively and protected with a desensitizing agent and proper bonding technique, there should be no reason for sensitivity.
 
### **MYTH 5: The veneer process is not reversible**
**Answer**: It is true that veneers are not reversible, so it is important to be confident about the procedure before committing.

**Dr. Rajpal**: Once the veneers are placed, it is not possible to go back to the original teeth. If the patient is extremely hesitant about placing veneers and there is room for bonding, then adding composite bonding to the tooth without removing tooth structure may be a good option in the meantime. In some cases, no-prep veneers are an option, but it requires the teeth to be slightly smaller and to have spacing for the best results. You want to avoid having the teeth look thick or bulky, which could cause gum irritation. 
 
**Dr. Saleh**: While the preparation is minimal, it is true that the treatment cannot be reversed. I, therefore, provide a thorough and comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning phase for all my patients. This results in their ability to make an informed decision that they can confidently commit to without regret. Truthfully, it’s never occurred that a patient wanted to reverse treatment. The before and after transformation is quite remarkable. Most patients comment that they feel they have the teeth and smile they were ‘always meant to have.’
 
### **MYTH 6: My smile will look unnatural**
**Answer**: Just as every smile is unique, so too is every person’s definition of ‘natural.’ Be clear about what you are looking for and be sure to ask to see before and after photos of previous patients to ensure your aesthetic aligns with that of your dentist.
 
**Dr. Saleh**: My philosophy towards aesthetics is objective. I see my role as delivering a smile that my patient’s want, therefore, communication is a key factor in the process. Our initial consultation will have between one to two hours of discussion followed by the creation of a model. The model will depict the new size, shape, and texture of the teeth. I place the new design in the mouth in the form of temporary veneers and/or crowns. I feel this gives my patients the best insight into their new smile. My patients are able to give me specific feedback with respect to the design, and it allows me to fine-tune the teeth into the smile of their dreams. 
 
**Dr. Rajpal**: I always communicate with the patient to understand their true desires. It is definitely possible to build character into the smile design and have slight imperfections or asymmetries for a more natural look. I can design a digital simulation as well as a wax mock-up to help visualize the potential final result. 
 
### **MYTH 7: Veneers are too expensive**
**Answer**: Veneers are an investment. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for.
 
**Dr. Rajpal**: They may seem like a large investment at the time, but veneers are a long-term investment that is well worth it. The smile is an extremely valuable asset. I have seen many of my patients in the entertainment industry book bigger roles and get more opportunities as a result of their enhanced smile. So in the end, oftentimes there is an appreciable return on investment. 
 
**Dr. Saleh**: As with any self-enhancement, porcelain veneers are an investment towards your overall oral health and systemic well-being. The true value, in my opinion, is the added confidence it brings. Many of my patients have reported life-changing results both professionally and personally. A large number of my patients started their journey following my work on social media. For some, it takes years to allocate the necessary resources to make their dream a reality. My fantastic administrative team is always there every step of the way to assist in any way they can.
 
## **The Takeaway**
Not your grandmother’s dental treatment, modern technology has improved the quality and longevity of porcelain veneers, with patients often enjoying the smile-enhancing benefits for decades to come. As with any cosmetic procedure, consulting with multiple providers will ensure you find the right treatment plan for your needs and aesthetic goals. 

Expert Opinion

Dental veneers have been around for nearly a century, but the technology has come a long way since their early days in Hollywood. Here, cosmetic dentists demystify the smile-enhancing treatment.

A Guide To Porcelain Dental Veneers For A Better Smile

Cosmetic Dentists Debunk The Most Common Myths About Veneers

shutterstock 85063117-min

Our smiles mean a lot to us. [According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry](https://aacd.com/express/newsviewpost&id=8005), roughly 50 percent of adults think that a smile is the most memorable feature after meeting someone for the first time. In the age of social media, there are plenty of tools out there to brighten and adjust our smiles in photos, but they can’t fix dental issues IRL. The good news is that cosmetic dentistry is more advanced (and popular) than ever and can give you a picture-perfect smile in everyday life. 

While they are different, cosmetic and medical dentistry are connected. “Everything that I do to restore function to the teeth and their surrounding structures is done in a cosmetic and aesthetic fashion,” Los Angeles cosmetic dentist [Anjali Rajpal, DDS](https://aedit.com/provider/anjali-rajpal-428) says. “With the materials we have today, decayed or worn teeth can be reconstructed with natural-looking materials that also are highly functional.”

Here are five procedures that can help achieve a megawatt smile.

## **1. In-Office Teeth Whitening**
When it comes to our smiles, most of us fixate on the color of our teeth. [Teeth whitening](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-teeth-whitening), also known as teeth bleaching, is a quick way to enhance their appearance by removing stains and discoloration and brightening teeth. 

While there are at-home kits, they are not as effective as working with a dentist. The over-the-counter, one-size-fits-all kits have a lower concentration of bleach and do not deliver strong enough results for some people. Teeth can turn yellow for many different reasons and each requires their own call to action. A dentist will be able to find the right approach to get those whites pearly. 

The overall process of teeth bleaching is quick and painless. First, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth and gums to remove any particles and bacteria that could interfere with the bleaching process. Next, the dentist will cover the gums to protect them and, after applying the whitening solution, will use a UV light to activate the bleach solution. This process may be repeated a few times until the desired whiteness is achieved. There are a number of different teeth whitening brands that offer in-office treatments, like Philips ZOOM, [BriteSmile](https://aedit.com/procedure/britesmile), or LumaLite, which have their own subtle differences. 

Many patients only require one session of bleaching, but the number of sessions depends on the initial color of your teeth. Most teeth whitening lasts for about six months to two years, depending on diet and lifestyle, and typically costs from $500 to $1,000. 

## **2. Dental Bonding**

[Dental bonding](https://aedit.com/procedure/dental-bonding) repairs decayed or chipped teeth, closes gaps, or changes the shape of teeth. The treatment works by applying a durable plastic resin to the tooth. A special light is then applied to harden and bond the resin, which is the same color as the teeth, leaving an improved smile that looks natural. The entire process depends on how many teeth you are bonding, but on average, it takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.

Dental bonding makes for a quicker and [less expensive alternative](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-really-like-to-get-veneers) compared to other cosmetic dental procedures like veneers or crowns. It is also a good option for those who do not want to compromise the structure of their original teeth. However, dental bondings are less stain and chip resistant. With that in mind, they can be better for temporary fixes rather than long term solutions. To get the most out of dental bonding, avoid habits like fingernail biting or pen chewing and never chew ice or other hard foods. 

Depending on location and person, dental bonding typically runs from $100 to $400. Dental insurance can sometimes fully or partially cover dental bonding, especially if it is accident-related.

## **3. Enamel Shaping**
Like dental bonding, enamel shaping (also known as enameloplasty) is a relatively quick and easy fix for small chips, uneven enamel, and irregular tooth shape. Unlike dental bonding, enamel shaping is permanent since the process, which is also known as stripping or slenderizing, involves removing small amounts of enamel.

Before committing to enamel shaping, you should set up a consultation with your dentist to assess the thickness of your teeth’s enamel. If the enamel is too thin, you may not be a suitable candidate for the procedure and may want to consider dental bonding or veneers instead. The overall procedure is quick and involves your dentist using a sanding disc or paper to smooth out and recontour the teeth. Because some of the enamel is being stripped, the dentin is more exposed and can make your teeth more sensitive to heat and cold.

Enamel shaping is one of the most inexpensive ways to improve your smile and typically runs from $50 to $250.

## **4. Dental Veneers**
[Dental veneers](https://aedit.com/procedure/veneers), also referred to as porcelain veneers or dental laminates, are an ideal option for those looking to fix chipped, misaligned, or irregularly shaped teeth and adjust spacing. The veneers are very thin custom made shells, made from resin or porcelain, that cover the whole tooth. Veneers are bonded to the front of the teeth and are dyed to match the color of your teeth. While it ultimately comes down to personal preference, porcelain is more stain-resistant than resin and can reflect light off of the teeth more naturally. 

Veneers are not to be confused with crowns, which are usually medically necessary, rather than cosmetic, are thicker than veneers, and require more enamel to be removed. While crowns can be used for cosmetic reasons, they are mostly prescribed for more serious issues like decay or breakage. 

The overall process for dental veneers is more time consuming than dental bonding. Usually, three trips to the dentist are required: an initial consultation, a visit to make the molds for the veneers, and a final visit to apply them. During the second visit, the dentist will trim off some enamel and take a mold to send to a dental laboratory to make the custom veneers. It can take up to a month to get the veneers from the laboratory, so often temporary veneers are applied in the meantime. To fix the veneers to the teeth, a special light is used to bond the cement, similar to dental bonding. Afterward, the dentist will remove any excess cement and make any final touch-ups. Depending on the specific case, a follow-up appointment may be needed. 

Veneers achieve a long-lasting natural smile, but do have some drawbacks. Most importantly, getting veneers is a permanent solution. Because the enamel is removed and teeth are shaved down, the process is irreversible and some can experience heightened sensitivity to hot and cold substances after they get them. Additionally, veneers are not indestructible. While they last longer than dental bonding, around seven to 15 years, they can eventually experience discoloration and chipping. They are also a larger investment and usually run around $1,000 to $2,000 per tooth.

## **5. Gum Reshaping**
When it comes to enhancing your smile, most people forget that it goes beyond just teeth. Reshaping the gums can also make a world of difference. The procedure, also known as gum contouring, gingival contouring, or tissue sculpting, can even out the gum line and fix a [gummy smile](https://aedit.com/procedure/gummy-smile-surgery). There are a number of reasons why someone can have uneven gums: it could be due to genetics, health issues, or even certain medications. [Gum reshaping](https://aedit.com/procedure/gum-graft-connective-tissue-grafts) can sometimes be medically necessary, like to cure gum recession, but it can also be done for cosmetic reasons.

Before the surgery, the doctor will draw out your new gum line directly onto your mouth and work with you to map out the desired results. Next, local anesthesia will be applied. The dentist, or periodontist (gum specialist), can use different tools and processes to perform the surgery depending on your needs. Some doctors use technology like radiosurgery or lasers and others use more mechanical methods like scalpels. Depending on the structure of your teeth, sometimes it is recommended to recontour the underlying bone as well. This ensures that the results last and the gums do not grow back. The entire process typically takes one appointment.

Since gum recontouring is a surgery, it has a little more downtime than the other cosmetic procedures above. The recovery process involves taking over-the-counter ibuprofen pain relievers–but not aspirin, which can cause bleeding–and consuming only soft foods. Recovery time can depend on the method used, but the pain should subside after a few days and the gums should heal within a couple of weeks. Depending on the severity of the procedure, gum reshaping can run from about $600 to $2,000. 

Each treatment listed above offers its own unique benefits and for many patients, it is possible to mix and match them to achieve the most desirable results. For instance, some patients combine dental bonding with enamel shaping while others get veneers along with gum contouring. Regardless of the procedure, Dr. Rajpal suggests patients always try to conserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. 

Work with a dentist that specializes in cosmetic dentistry to come up with a game plan to achieve the perfect smile you have been dreaming of. “It is important to be treated by someone who has an aesthetic eye and who is highly trained in the latest techniques and use of materials,” Dr. Rajpal advises. 

Aesthetics

Our smiles mean a lot to us. The good news is that cosmetic dentistry is more advanced and popular than ever. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Anjali Rajpal tells us how to get a picture perfect smile.

Anjali Rajpal, DMD

Cosmetic Dentistry

Director of Beverly Hills Dental Arts

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Meet Dr. Anjali Rajpal

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Dr. Rajpal is committed to blending art and science to create healthy smiles that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Because of her interest in painting and sculpture she enjoys working w...

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For me, the most important part of smile design is making sure that my patients walk out with teeth that suit them and that look natural.