Aug
Transforming your smile with veneers can be a wonderful experience! If you were embarrassed to smile due to chipped, discolored, crooked, or misshapen teeth, you’ll now have a smile you’ll love! You can learn more about the porcelain veneers procedure and what to expect from this treatment at Los Gatos Creek Dental in Los Gatos, California. Dr. Thomas Bill and our team address your questions about getting porcelain veneers here.
Veneers are extremely thin layers that can be attached to the surface of imperfect teeth to enhance their appearance. The shells are custom-made for your teeth, designed to match their shape and color. They can be used to cover chips, stains, and cracks; close gaps between teeth; improve the shape of irregular teeth; or give slightly crooked teeth a straighter appearance.  Â
In the sense that they’re cemented in place and can only be removed by your dentist – yes. In the sense that they last forever – no. But they can have a long lifespan of 15 or more years, with good oral care. Dr. Thomas will remove a thin layer of enamel from your teeth to place the veneers. As this enamel can’t be replaced, the porcelain veneer process is considered irreversible.
Most people can benefit from this treatment, depending on the state of their teeth and the problems they want to correct. Veneers can only be placed on healthy teeth, so any problems with decay or gum disease need to be addressed before your procedure. If you have a problem with teeth grinding, veneers may not be the best choice for you. After a thorough evaluation of your smile, Dr. Thomas can determine if you’re a good candidate for veneers.
No, getting veneers doesn’t hurt. If you have sensitive teeth, we can use a mild anesthetic to minimize discomfort during tooth preparation or the placement of a restoration. Â
Getting porcelain veneers takes at least two dental visits. Your consultation and tooth prep generally occur on the first visit. After prepping your teeth, we’ll take impressions of your mouth and send them to a dental lab to fabricate your veneers. As the creation of custom veneers can take up to two weeks, we’ll put temporary veneers in place to protect your teeth during this time period. When your customized veneers are ready, we’ll schedule another dental visit to permanently bond them in place.
Veneer treatment is designed to enhance your smile by concealing imperfections you find displeasing. They won’t harm your teeth, but you’ll lose some enamel protection for veneer placement, which could lead to sensitivity. As enamel is permanently removed, these teeth will need veneers, crowns, or some other form of protection for life.  Â
Los Gatos Creek Dental is your one-stop shop for getting porcelain veneers in Los Gatos, CA. To schedule an appointment, contact us at (408) 335-4466.
Dr. Thomas Bill is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. A Cupertino native, he earned his degree in Molecular Biology from UCLA and completed his dental training at the top-ranked UCSF School of Dentistry. Dr. Thomas has advanced expertise in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, including veneers, Invisalign, root canals, and extractions.
He has completed over 250 hours of continuing education in endodontics, implants, and smile design. As a member of the ADA, CDA, Santa Clara Dental Society, Oasis Implant Academy, and other professional organizations, Dr. Thomas exemplifies a strong dedication to clinical excellence, lifelong learning, and ethical practice.
