Home/Care/Cosmetic/Veneers guide

Understanding dental veneers.

Still you, thoughtfully refined. Veneers can change shape, color and proportion, but they are not the answer to every cosmetic concern.

Dr. Shawn Sharma in a white coat

What veneers can do

Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic restorations bonded to the front surface of teeth. They can change tooth shape, color and proportion. We compare veneers with whitening, bonding and orthodontic options before recommending irreversible treatment.

Who they suit

  • Veneers can be appropriate for selected adults with healthy teeth and gums, enough enamel for bonding and a bite that can support the restorations.
  • Most patients return to normal activities quickly, although temporary sensitivity can occur and the experience varies by case.
  • Timing varies with planning, the amount of preparation and the laboratory workflow. Temporary restorations may be used while the final ceramics are made.
  • The goal is a natural result that fits your face, bite and existing teeth rather than a one size fits all version of a perfect smile.

Planning a natural result

Good cosmetic dentistry begins with diagnosis, photography and a clear understanding of your goals. Tooth position, gum contours, enamel, bite and facial proportions all influence whether veneers are appropriate and how they should be designed.

Meet your dentist

Dr. Shawn Sharma has practiced in the Bay Area for 15 years and believes cosmetic dentistry should support oral health, not sit apart from it. He starts by understanding what you would like to change, then compares conservative options before recommending treatment.

Meet Dr. Sharma   What to expect with veneers   Teeth veneers

Before and after

Smiles, thoughtfully restored.

Every smile shown here belongs to a patient of Dr. Sharma. Drag the line to compare.

Smile before treatment, case 1 The same smile after treatment by Dr. Sharma, case 1

Shared with each patient’s permission. Individual results vary.

Veneers · Whitening · Bonding · Clear aligners

Begin with a smile consultation.

Sit down with Dr. Sharma to talk through what you would like to change, which options suit your teeth and what a realistic timeline looks like.

“Dr. Sharma designed a natural, attractive smile for me.”

Deirdre C., patient

Your plan and its costs are explained before any treatment begins.

New patients welcome

We look forward to meeting you.

Call, text or request an appointment online. We will help you choose a time.

Visit

2875 Middlefield Road, Suite 1
Palo Alto, CA 94306

Hours

Monday to Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.