New Year, New Smile: the Transformative Power of Veneers

Have you resolved to improve your oral health in 2026? Whether you want a more symmetrical smile or to enhance teeth with minor imperfections such as cracks or chips, dental veneers provide an effective option.

At her San Jose, California, practice, experienced dentist Irma Francisco, DDS, regularly uses veneers to transform patients’ smiles. Read on to discover what veneers are, the cosmetic issues they can correct, and how to tell if you’re a candidate for them.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or ceramic that are bonded to your front teeth. They’re designed to match your natural tooth shape and color, ensuring they blend in with your smile.

Veneers can make your teeth more uniform if they’re different sizes or help address imperfections that other treatments can’t correct. Before placing veneers, Dr. Francisco removes a thin layer of enamel from your natural teeth. This allows the veneers to bond securely and withstand everyday activities, such as biting and chewing.

What types of cosmetic issues can veneers correct?

Dr. Francisco uses veneers to correct a variety of issues, including:

Chips, cracks, or worn down teeth
Stains or discoloration resistant to teeth whitening
Misshapen, uneven, or shorter-than-average teeth
Gaps between teeth

After placing your veneers, Dr. Francisco polishes them to make sure they blend in with your natural smile.

Who is a good candidate for dental veneers?

Almost anyone who wants a brighter, more balanced smile can benefit from veneers, as long as they have healthy teeth and gums. If Dr. Francisco identifies any issues during your initial exam, such as cavities or gum disease, she addresses those first.

You may qualify for veneers if you have cosmetic issues you’d like to correct and are committed to practicing good oral hygiene. Veneers usually last 10 to 15 years, but regularly brushing and flossing are essential for their longevity. Be sure to tell Dr. Francisco if you grind your teeth, as this can affect your results.

What to expect when you get veneers

Getting veneers usually takes two appointments, about a week or two apart.

At your initial consultation, Dr. Francisco completes an oral exam and dental X-rays. If she determines you’re a candidate, she numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and removes a thin layer of enamel from the teeth that will receive veneers. She then takes impressions and sends them to a dental lab that manufactures your veneers. Before your appointment ends, Dr. Francisco applies temporary veneers so you can bite and chew comfortably.

A week or two later, after the dental lab finishes your veneers, you return to our office. Dr. Francisco numbs your mouth, removes the temporary veneers, and replaces them with the custom ones. She bonds the veneers to your teeth, removes any excess material to ensure a balanced smile, then polishes your teeth.

Once your veneers are bonded in place, simply brush and floss regularly to maintain them. You should also avoid biting down on hard objects, such as ice, as this can damage your veneers.

Request a consultation

If you dream of having a brighter, more uniform smile, veneers can help you achieve that goal. To request a consultation to discuss them, contact us today by calling the office or booking an appointment online.