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Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Considering a smile makeover is exciting, but it also comes with questions. How much will it cost? Will it look natural? How long will it last?
At Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we believe that an informed patient is a confident patient. We want you to feel completely comfortable with your decision to enhance your smile.
We have compiled the most common questions our patients ask Dr. Hans Almanzar about cosmetic dentistry. Whether you are considering simple whitening or a full set of porcelain veneers, we are here to provide clear, honest answers.
General Cosmetic Dentistry Questions
What exactly is a "Smile Makeover"?
A Smile Makeover is a comprehensive treatment plan designed to improve the appearance of your smile. It is not a single procedure but a combination of treatments, such as veneers, bonding, crowns, or whitening, customized to address your specific goals (color, alignment, shape, and balance).
Am I a candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
Almost anyone who is unhappy with their smile is a candidate! If you have stained, chipped, gapped, or misaligned teeth, we can help. The most important requirement is that your mouth is healthy (no active gum disease or decay) before we begin. We can treat any underlying health issues first.
Will my new smile look fake?
Not at our practice. We specialize in natural-looking aesthetics. We use high-grade porcelain that mimics the translucency and texture of real enamel. We customize the shade and shape to complement your face, so your teeth look like yours, only better.
Can I see what my smile will look like before I commit?
Yes! We use Digital Smile Design technology to create a virtual preview of your new smile. For veneers, we can often create a temporary "mock-up" that you can try on in your mouth to see the shape and length before the final ceramics are made.
PROCEDURE
Questions About Veneers & Bonding
What is the difference between veneers and bonding?
Porcelain Veneers are thin, custom-made ceramic shells bonded to the front of the tooth. They are highly durable, stain-resistant, and last 10-15 years or more. Dental Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin applied directly to the tooth. It is faster and less expensive but less durable and more prone to staining than veneers.
Do you have to shave my teeth down for veneers?
We practice minimally invasive dentistry. Modern ultra-thin veneers often require very little preparation (removing a tiny amount of enamel) to ensure a natural, non-bulky fit. In some cases ("no-prep veneers"), we may not need to remove any enamel at all.
Are veneers permanent?
Yes. Because a small amount of enamel is usually removed to place them, the process is irreversible. However, with proper care, veneers are a long-term investment that can last for decades.
Can veneers pop off?
It is extremely rare. We use advanced bonding cements that fuse the veneer to the tooth structure. As long as you don't use your teeth as tools (opening packages, biting nails), your veneers will remain securely in place.
TESTIMONIAL
Patient Success Story: "I Had So Many Questions..."
Actual Patient Scenario
The Challenge: "Rachel" came to us wanting veneers but was terrified they would look like "Chiclets" (too white and square). She had a list of 20 questions about the shape, the color, and the long-term maintenance. She was hesitant to move forward.
The Solution: Dr. Almanzar sat down with her for a full hour. He answered every question and showed her "Before & After" photos of cases similar to hers. He created a digital simulation so she could see the natural shape he proposed.
The Result: Rachel proceeded with 8 veneers. When she saw the final result, she cried. She told us, "They look so real. Thank you for being patient and explaining everything. I felt so safe making this decision."
FAQs
