Porcelain veneers are thin restorations bonded to the front of suitable teeth. They may address colour, shape, small gaps and limited position differences, but they are not the right answer to every aesthetic concern.
Veneers may require irreversible tooth preparation. The amount varies by tooth, and a no-preparation approach is possible only in selected cases.
Suitability
Who may benefit from an assessment?
- Patients with suitable enamel seeking a change in colour or shape
- People with small gaps or limited shape irregularities
- Patients seeking aesthetic repair of chipped or worn front teeth
- People able to maintain healthy gums and regular care
How is suitability assessed?
Enamel, gum health, bite, grinding, existing fillings and expectations are considered. For marked crowding, orthodontics may be a more conservative first option.
What happens during treatment?
Photographs, shade and proportion planning may be followed by a mock-up. Controlled preparation, an impression or scan, provisionals, try-in and bonding are then completed as indicated.
How is a natural result planned?
Rather than choosing one level of whiteness, the face, lips, neighbouring teeth, surface texture and translucency are considered together. The bite is checked at final approval.
How should veneers be cared for?
Continue brushing with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth daily. Avoid nail biting and opening hard objects with teeth; a night guard may be advised for grinding.
Treatment journey
How does the process work?
- 01
Assess teeth, gums and bite
- 02
Plan photographs, shade, proportion and a mock-up when useful
- 03
Controlled preparation, scan and provisional stage
- 04
Try-in, bonding, bite review and care advice
Clinical sources
The general health information on this page has been checked against these independent patient resources.