These thin shells cover the front of teeth to adjust their appearance without major changes to the tooth itself.
Kentfield Dental is seeing patients at a temporary office in Mill Valley while the Kentfield office is under renovation. The practice cares for families across Marin County and the Bay Area. Dr. Soroush Ghaffarpour, DDS writes these notes.
They cover the front surface with a thin shell
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom porcelain shells designed to refine the shape, color, proportion and alignment of your smile. They are previewed before we ever touch a tooth.
A dentist takes impressions and works with a lab to create the shells. Once ready, they bond to the front of the teeth. The goal is a natural look that fits the rest of the face. Patients often choose this option when teeth are chipped, slightly crooked, or discolored in ways that whitening cannot fix.
Other ways to adjust the look of a smile
Some people start with professional whitening that's stronger and more even than store kits. Others need precise diode-laser gum recontouring to reveal more of the natural teeth and balance the gumline. A few close dark gaps near the gumline with the no-drill Bioclear Matrix System for a smoother surface.
Each choice depends on what the teeth and gums already show. A short exam helps match the right step to the person.
Who tends to benefit most
Adults who want modest, lasting changes without braces often look into these options. The work fits well for those who already have healthy teeth and gums. At Kentfield Dental, Dr. Soroush Ghaffarpour sees patients from Mill Valley and across Marin County and the Bay Area. When a case calls for it, that same visit can also cover teeth whitening, a gummy smile adjustment, or black triangle closure.
The bottom line: Porcelain veneers offer a direct way to adjust tooth appearance when the rest of the mouth is healthy.
Frequently asked questions
With good care they often stay in place for ten to fifteen years before any touch-up work is needed.
Only a small amount of enamel is removed in most cases so the shells sit flush with the gumline.
Yes, we show a preview model so you can approve the shape and shade before the final shells are made.