A veneer is a very thin, tooth-coloured piece of porcelain (like a false finger nail) that is bonded on top of your own tooth. Based on your needs, we can adjust the shape of your veneers to make your teeth overall look longer and or closer together. You can have just one veneer or a whole set, known as a smile makeover.

For a single stained tooth we can also match the precise shade of porcelain to give it a lighter appearance and fit in with the surrounding teeth. Veneers can also be used to close small gaps, when braces are not suitable. If one tooth is slightly out of position, a veneer can sometimes be fitted to bring it into line with the others.

What are the pros and cons of veneers?

Pros:

Whiter and more even teeth: Veneers can improve your smile’s appearance, giving you a more even and whiter smile.
A realistic, natural finish: Porcelain veneers mimic the light-reflecting qualities of teeth, providing a natural-looking result.
Durability: Veneers offer a long-lasting, cosmetic solution. They can last for over 10 years, if taken care of appropriately.
Strong and stain resistant: Porcelain veneers are more stain resistant and durable than composite bonding, for example, offering similar strength to a crown.

Cons:

Permanent: In most cases, the enamel on the front of your teeth will need to be prepared (filed down) before having veneers placed. The enamel is the thin outer layer on a tooth’s surface. This means your teeth will be permanently altered.
Sensitivity: In some cases, patients can experience increased sensitivity after having veneers fitted.
Fragility: While porcelain veneers are very tough, they could break when exposed to strong impact, e.g., biting on hard foods and grinding your teeth. If this occurs, you’ll need to have any impacted veneers repaired or replaced.

What are the alternatives to veneers?

There are several alternative cosmetic treatments available. These include:

Composite bonding: Composite bonding involves applying resin to a tooth, to fill any minor chips and gaps, or improve discoloration. Bonding is a quick, non-invasive option for restoring your tooth’s natural shape and colour.
Teeth whitening: If you’d like to correct stained teeth, you could consider professional teeth whitening. Your dentist will advise whether this is the most suitable option for you.
Crowns: A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that’s placed over the entire visible portion of a tooth. It feels and functions just like teeth.
Orthodontics: Fixed or removable braces can be used to straighten misaligned teeth and close gaps. Virtually-invisible options are available.

It’s important to consider all the options available to you. In an initial consultation, your dentist will be able to explain the different processes and advise which treatment best suits your individual needs.

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