Porcelain Veneers – What Are They?

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain or composite that are precisely bonded to the front surface of the tooth. They refine colour, shape, and proportions to create a natural-looking, balanced smile without excessive removal of tooth tissue. They’re often associated with the “Hollywood smile” because many public figures choose veneers to enhance their smile aesthetics.

Compared with crowns, veneers are minimally invasive: preparation usually involves removing only a very thin layer of enamel, preserving healthy tissue and everyday comfort.

Veneer Types and Materials

Choosing between porcelain and composite depends on your desired result, budget, and longevity. Porcelain offers lifelike light reflection and stable colour; composite can be a quicker option for subtle aesthetic refinements, often in a single visit.

• Porcelain veneers – high aesthetics, colour stability, and durability (often lasting 10–15 years with proper care).
• Composite veneers – budget-friendlier and faster to place; typically shorter lifespan than porcelain.

Who Are Veneers Suitable For?

Veneers are ideal for enhancing the appearance of front teeth when you want to correct colour, shape, or minor asymmetries without extensive restorative work. With careful smile design, we can harmonise lips, gums, and tooth proportions.

• Persistent discolouration that doesn’t respond to whitening;
• Small gaps (diastemas) between teeth;
• Minor chips or asymmetry;
• Enamel wear, microcracks, surface defects;
• Overall smile aesthetics and proportion refinement.

The Veneer Process

Our process runs through clear stages – from diagnostics and smile design to final bonding and polishing. Detailed planning delivers a predictable, aesthetic, and functional result.

1. Consultation & planning. Oral health assessment, smile design, and material selection (with optional “mock-up” preview).
2. Tooth preparation. Minimal enamel reduction (~0.3–0.5 mm) for a precise, natural fit.
3. Impressions & laboratory. Custom fabrication based on your tooth shape and shade.
4. Try-in & bonding. Fine adjustments and bonding with high-strength adhesives.
5. Polishing & review. Final finish, care instructions, and follow-up plan.

Advantages and Considerations

Veneers offer a high-aesthetic, minimally invasive solution, but success relies on correct case selection and excellent oral hygiene.

Veneers vs Crowns – Which Is Right for You?

Both options can enhance the look of a tooth, but they differ in invasiveness and indications. Veneers are primarily aesthetic when the underlying tooth is largely healthy; crowns are preferred when significant structural restoration is required (e.g., after large fractures or root canal treatment).

• Veneers – aesthetic correction for healthy or minimally damaged front teeth.
• Crowns – functional and aesthetic restoration for heavily damaged or cracked teeth.

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

The cost depends on the number of teeth, case complexity, and chosen material. You’ll receive a tailored plan and itemised quote after a consultation at our East Finchley or Balham clinics.

For the most accurate guidance, please book a visit today.

Common Questions and Myths About Veneers

Here are quick, clear answers to common concerns about the procedure, comfort, care, and longevity.

• Do veneers damage teeth? When properly planned and placed, veneers do not harm the teeth.
• Do veneers look fake? Custom shade and shape selection ensures a natural, lifelike result.
• Can veneers fall off? With high-quality bonding and good hygiene, failures are uncommon; porcelain veneers often last 10+ years.
• Do they need special care? Maintain excellent daily hygiene and attend regular check-ups/hygiene visits.

Patient Experiences & Before/After

Many patients report a significant boost in confidence and a greater willingness to smile after veneer treatment. The aesthetic change often supports social and professional confidence too.

“The transformation is incredible. I finally feel confident smiling freely. Thank you, Dental Art.” — our patient

Are Veneers Right for You?

If you’d like to enhance your smile aesthetics, veneers can be an effective solution. The first step is a consultation with an experienced clinician.

Veneers can transform your smile and boost your confidence.

• Book a visit today to discover how veneers could work for your smile.
• Explore how to achieve a brighter, more symmetrical look;
• Get a personalised treatment plan with clear steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (Veneers)

Quick answers on comfort, care, longevity, and everyday life with veneers.