Porcelain Veneers in Long Beach, CA: A Brighter, Natural-Looking Smile
Do you hide your smile because of stained, chipped, or uneven teeth? Porcelain veneers can give you a brighter, more even smile that still looks natural. At Salem Dentistry in Long Beach, Dr. Roxana Salem, DDS, uses her advanced training in esthetic dentistry to design veneers that fit your face, your features, and your goals.
Call 562-435-8339 or book online
Why patients choose Salem Dentistry for veneers
- Advanced esthetic training. Dr. Salem completed the Comprehensive Esthetic & Restorative Residency at the Esthetic Professionals Dental Educational Center (2016–17).
- See your new smile first. You try the look on your own teeth before your veneers are made.
- A smile designed for your face, not a one-size-fits-all look.
- One dentist from start to finish. You see Dr. Salem at every visit, from planning to final placement.
- Honest advice. If whitening, bonding, or clear aligners would serve you better, she’ll tell you.
- High-quality porcelain, including E.max, chosen for your case.
- Digital scans, no messy impressions.
- Care in three languages: English, German, and Farsi.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They cover imperfections and change the color, shape, or size of your teeth, so your smile looks the way you want it to.
Veneers can help with:
- Stains that whitening can’t remove
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Teeth that are uneven, too small, or oddly shaped
- Teeth that are slightly crooked
Benefits of porcelain veneers
- A natural look that matches your smile
- Strong resistance to stains from coffee, tea, and wine
- Gentle on your gums
- Long-lasting, often 10 to 15 years or more with good care
- Brighter, whiter teeth
Porcelain or composite?
Veneers can be made from porcelain or from tooth-colored composite resin.
- Porcelain veneers look the most like natural enamel, resist stains, and last longer. Dr. Salem uses E.max and other high-quality porcelains, chosen for the look and strength your smile needs.
- Composite veneers cost less and can often be done in one visit, but they stain more easily and don’t last as long.
Dr. Salem will explain both options and help you choose what’s best for your smile and your budget.
What to expect
Most patients need just two or three visits.
- Consultation. Dr. Salem listens to what you’d like to change, examines your teeth, and plans your new smile with you.
- Smile try-in. She places a preview of your new smile on your own teeth, so you can see the shape and length and ask for changes before anything is made.
- Preparation. A very thin layer of enamel is gently removed so the veneers sit naturally. A digital scan is sent to the dental lab, and temporary veneers may be placed while you wait.
- Placement. Dr. Salem checks the fit and color of each veneer, then bonds them securely to your teeth.
Is it right for you?
Veneers are a permanent choice, because a small amount of enamel is removed. That’s why Dr. Salem takes the time to walk you through every option first. For some patients, whitening, bonding, or clear aligners may be a better fit, and she’ll tell you honestly.
Your teeth and gums also need to be healthy first. Cavities and gum disease are treated before veneers are placed.
Caring for your veneers
- Brush twice a day and floss daily
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste
- Don’t bite your nails, chew ice, or open packages with your teeth
- If you grind your teeth at night, wear a night guard to protect your veneers
- Keep up with regular exams and cleanings
Questions patients ask
Does getting veneers hurt?
Most patients find it comfortable. The teeth are numbed during preparation, and only a very thin layer of enamel is removed. Some sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal.
How long do veneers last?
Porcelain veneers often last 10 to 15 years or more with good care. Composite veneers usually need to be repaired or replaced sooner.
Will my veneers look fake?
No. Dr. Salem designs each veneer to suit your face and matches the shade and shape to your natural teeth. The try-in lets you see and approve the look before your veneers are made.
How many veneers do I need?
It depends on your smile and your goals. Some patients need one or two to fix a chipped or discolored tooth. Others choose six to ten to change the whole smile.
Can veneers be whitened?
No. Porcelain doesn’t respond to whitening. If you want a whiter smile, whiten your natural teeth first, and your veneers will be matched to the new shade.
Can veneers stain or get cavities?
Porcelain resists stains very well. The veneer itself can’t get a cavity, but the tooth underneath and around it can, so good brushing and flossing still matter.
Veneers or crowns: what’s the difference?
A veneer covers only the front of the tooth and is mainly cosmetic. A crown covers the whole tooth and is used when a tooth is weak or badly damaged.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost depends on the material and how many veneers you choose. You’ll receive a clear written price at your consultation.
Does insurance cover veneers?
Veneers are usually considered cosmetic, so most dental plans don’t cover them. Call us and we’ll check your benefits for you.
Love your smile again
Call Salem Dentistry at 562-435-8339 or book online to schedule your veneer consultation.