Improve Tooth Shape with Veneers at Kind Smiles, Raleigh, NC

Veneers can transform your teeth by covering chips, stains, and gaps for a fresh, natural look. Studies show that over 80% of people who receive veneers report improved self-esteem and confidence in social and professional settings. At Kind Smiles, we focus on gentle and skilled care to give you a smile you'll love.

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What Are Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin covers that go on the front of your teeth. They help fix things like chips, stains, or slightly crooked teeth. They don't fix everything, but they make teeth look better.

Most veneers are made from porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain looks more like real teeth and lasts longer, while composite is quicker to apply and easier on the wallet. So, it depends on what you're going for.

The process is pretty straightforward. Your dentist gently files down a small bit of your tooth, takes a mold, and sends it off to a lab. When your custom veneers return, they're bonded to your teeth with strong glue. And just like that, your smile has a fresh new look. It's a small change that makes a big difference.

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Types of Veneers

There are two main types of veneers: porcelain and composite. Each one has its advantages, and what is considered "best" depends on your goals and budget.

Porcelain Veneers:

• They look natural, and they can be hard to tell apart from real teeth
• Resist stains
• Last a long time—sometimes over 10 years

Composite Veneers:

• Quicker to place, often done in just one visit
• Costs less
• Easier to fix if something chips or cracks

If you want the most natural look and longer-lasting results, porcelain might be your choice. But a composite can still do the job well if you're looking for a faster, more affordable fix.

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Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers

Veneers aren't for everyone, but they're perfect for many people. If your teeth are mostly healthy but you've got some things that bug you—like stains that won't go away, small chips, or uneven edges—veneers might be just the thing.

You might be a good fit if:

• Your teeth are stained, and whitening hasn't helped
• You have little chips or cracks
• There are small gaps between your teeth
• Your teeth are oddly shaped or just a bit too short

But here's the deal—veneers work best on teeth that are otherwise healthy. If you've got gum disease or a lot of tooth decay, your dentist might suggest other fixes first. And if you grind your teeth, you'll probably need a nightguard to protect your new veneers.

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Step-by-Step Overview of the Veneer Placement Process

The process usually takes two or three visits, and your teeth look completely different before you know it.

First, your dentist checks your teeth and discusses what you want to change. This is where you get to point out what's stressing you. Next, they gently shave off a thin enamel layer—just enough to make space for the veneers.

Then, they take impressions (basically a mold of your teeth), which are sent to a lab where custom veneers are made just for you. While you wait, you may wear temporary veneers, which serve as a placeholder until the permanent ones are ready.

When your custom veneers are ready, you come back in. Your dentist checks the fit, makes tiny tweaks, and glues them using special dental cement. And that's it! You walk out with a fresh, polished look that still feels like you—only better.

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How Veneers Compare to Other Cosmetic Dental Options

Veneers are just one option on the menu. There are a few other ways to improve how your teeth look, and each has its own advantages. Let's break it down.

Bonding

This is great for small stuff—chips, cracks, maybe a gap. It's fast and cheaper than veneers and usually done in one visit. But it doesn't last as long and might stain over time.

Crowns

Crowns cover the whole tooth and are better for badly damaged teeth. Veneers are more like a surface fix—they only go on the front and are less invasive.

Whitening

If your only issue is color, whitening might do the trick. But if you also want to fix shape or alignment, whitening just won't cut it.

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Meet The Doctor

Dr. Shashank Reddy Gattumeedhi, DDS, MBA

Dr. Shashank Reddy Gattumeedhi started his dental journey in Bangalore, India, where he earned his dental degree. After working there for three years, he came to the U.S. to learn more, getting an MBA and a dental degree from NYU. He's trained in laser dentistry and Invisalign® and loves helping patients feel comfortable and cared for. Dr. Gattumeedhi believes it's better to stop dental problems before they start.

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Financial Options

At Kind Smiles, we accept most PPO insurance plans like Delta Dental, Aetna®, Cigna®, and more. We don't take HMO plans, but we offer in-office dental plans if you don't have insurance. You can also use CareCredit® to pay for your treatment over time. If you have any questions about payments or services in Raleigh, call us at (919) 615-2885. Dr. Shashank Gattumeedhi and our team are happy to help you!