Porcelain veneers
Thin porcelain facings for a more permanent change to shape, shade and alignment.
A veneer is a thin layer of carefully crafted porcelain bonded over the front of a tooth. Porcelain is naturally translucent, so it reflects light much as enamel does, which is what makes a well-made veneer look like a tooth rather than a covering.
Two appointments, and you see it first
We start with a consultation, where we listen to what you want to change and discuss tooth shape, your bite and how your teeth move when you chew.
Using dental imaging we can show you how the result will look before anything is done. We can also build a diagnostic wax-up, an exact replica of the proposed veneers on a model of your own teeth, so you can hold the result in your hand.
What veneers can put right
Gaps and spacing
Closing unwanted gaps between the front teeth, including diastemas.
Minor alignment
Correcting small angulations to create the impression of straighter teeth.
Size and proportion
Balancing front teeth that differ in size, or small and peg-shaped teeth.
Colour mismatches
Covering teeth that no longer match, such as root-filled teeth that have greyed.
Chips and wear
Restoring chipped edges, accidental damage and age-related wear.
Protection
Shielding remaining enamel from further acid erosion and covering exposed dentine.
What happens at the appointment
Depending on the tooth, some careful modification may be needed to create room for the veneer. We preserve as much of your own tooth as we can, but a degree of reduction is usually necessary to stop the finished veneer looking bulky.
Impressions go to our technicians, who make the veneers. While they are being made, your teeth are protected with a temporary white covering so you can carry on as normal.
- Around two weeks in the laboratory
- Temporary coverage in the meantime
- Fitted only once you are happy with them
A consultation and planning appointment, then fitting once the veneers are made.
Not sure whether porcelain veneers is right for you?
Book a consultation and we will assess your options honestly. If something simpler is the better answer for your case, we will tell you.
Common questions
Yes, in the sense that preparing a tooth for a veneer cannot be undone. That is why we will always talk through whitening, bonding and alignment first if any of those could get you where you want to be with less intervention.
At the final appointment we show you the veneers before anything is cemented. Once you are completely happy they are bonded permanently to your teeth, your bite is checked and any small adjustments made so they feel comfortable.
Other treatments
Crowns & bridges
Rebuilding a heavily damaged tooth, or replacing a missing one using the teeth either side.
Learn more
Examinations
Twice a year, including x-rays where clinically needed and an oral cancer screening.
Learn more
Children's dentistry
Friendly first visits, fissure sealants and habits that stick.
Learn more