A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain bonded to the front of a tooth. Because it covers the visible surface, a veneer can change how a tooth looks: its shape, its shade, and its size. At Starfish Dental, Dr. Dag Zapatero designs veneers with a natural look and long-term function in mind.
What veneers can address
- Gaps between teeth
- Chipped, worn, or broken teeth
- Teeth that look discolored or stained
- Teeth that are small, uneven, or oddly shaped
- Minor alignment concerns
- Veneers are not right for every situation. An exam is the only way to know whether they fit your teeth and your goals.
What to expect
- Consultation. We talk about what you would like to change and look at the health of your teeth and gums. Your treatment plan takes your budget, lifestyle, and individual needs into account.
- Design. Dr. Zapatero designs your veneers around the changes you want to make.
- Preparation. The tooth surfaces are lightly reshaped.
- Making the veneers. We partner with master technicians to have them crafted to our specifications.
- Placement and adjustment. The veneers are bonded to your teeth, and we check your bite. The treatment is usually two appointments.
- A short adjustment period is normal. See our instructions after cosmetic reconstruction for what to expect afterward.
Caring for your veneers
You can brush and floss veneers as you did before. Avoid whitening toothpaste, which can be abrasive and scratch the surface. Regular cleanings and checkups help protect your new smile.
Our approach
We choose materials carefully. In our practice's words: "Many new dental materials come and go, but we choose only those backed by independent, long-term research—not marketing hype."
Is a veneer right for you?
Depending on your goals, other options such as crowns or clear aligners may be a better fit. We will explain your choices so you can decide without pressure.
To talk about whether veneers are a good fit, call Starfish Dental at (757) 481-3893 or request an appointment online. We are at 3020 Shore Drive, Suite A, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.