What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin ceramic shells — typically 0.3 to 0.5 mm thick — that are permanently bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can correct a wide range of cosmetic concerns simultaneously, delivering a dramatic smile transformation that looks entirely natural.

What Can Veneers Fix?

• Permanent discoloration or staining that whitening cannot correct

• Chipped, cracked, or worn teeth

• Slightly misaligned or uneven teeth

• Gaps between teeth (diastemas)

• Teeth that appear too small or disproportionate

• Irregularly shaped teeth

• A “gummy” smile combined with gum reshaping

Am I a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Ideal candidates:

• Have healthy teeth and gums (any decay or gum disease must be treated first)

• Are committed to good oral hygiene

• Do not have severe grinding habits (or are willing to wear a night guard)

• Have realistic expectations about the outcome

• Want a long-lasting cosmetic improvement

Veneers may not be appropriate if:

• There is insufficient enamel remaining

• Teeth are severely misaligned (orthodontics may be recommended first)

• You have untreated bruxism without a management plan

Types of Veneers

Traditional Porcelain Veneers

• Requires removal of a thin layer of enamel (irreversible)

• Thinnest, most natural result

• Exceptional color stability and durability

• Lasts 10–20 years with proper care

Minimal-Prep or No-Prep Veneers

• Little to no enamel removal

• Slightly thicker profile

• Not suitable for all cases — Dr. Kim will assess whether this is appropriate

What to Expect — The Veneer Process

Consultation & Smile Design

• Discussion of your aesthetic goals

• Photographs and digital smile preview

• Shade selection — often done in conjunction with whitening of other teeth

Appointment 1 — Preparation

1. Local anesthesia for comfort

2. A thin, precise layer of enamel is removed from the front surface

3. Digital scan or impressions taken

4. Temporary veneers placed to protect teeth and preview the result

5. Takes approximately 90–120 minutes

Review Period

• You wear the temporaries for 1–2 weeks

• This is your opportunity to evaluate the shape, length, and appearance

• Feedback is communicated to the ceramist before final fabrication

Appointment 2 — Bonding

1. Temporaries removed and teeth cleaned

2. Each veneer is tried in individually and as a set

3. Color-adjustable bonding cement is selected

4. Veneers are permanently bonded one by one

5. Bite checked and final polish applied

6. Takes approximately 90–120 minutes

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 20 years with proper care. They are highly stain-resistant and maintain their appearance well over time.

Caring for Your Veneers

• Floss daily — veneers do not protect the sides of teeth

• Avoid biting hard objects (ice, fingernails, hard candy)

• Wear a night guard if you grind

• Attend regular check-ups — Dr. Kim will monitor the margins and surrounding gum tissue

Important Note About Permanence

Porcelain veneers require removal of enamel that cannot be replaced. This means once you have veneers, the teeth will always need to be covered by a restoration. Dr. Kim ensures every patient fully understands this before proceeding.