Porcelain veneers are often called the cornerstone of cosmetic dentistry — and for good reason. They can address nearly every aesthetic concern with natural-looking, durable results. Here is everything you need to know.
What Are Veneers?
A porcelain veneer is a thin shell of dental ceramic bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Veneers are custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory to precise specifications of colour, shape, and size. When placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist, they are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
What Can Veneers Fix?
Veneers can address: severe staining or discolouration, chipped or worn front teeth, uneven or irregularly shaped teeth, minor gaps, slightly crooked or overlapping teeth, and teeth that appear too small. Veneers do not address bite problems or severely misaligned teeth — those require orthodontics first.
The Veneer Process
Treatment typically requires 2-3 appointments over 2-3 weeks. At the first visit, we prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel, take digital impressions, and place temporary veneers. Your custom porcelain veneers are then fabricated in a dental laboratory. At your final appointment, we bond them permanently in place.
Cost, Longevity, and Candidacy
Porcelain veneers are a significant investment — they are not covered by dental insurance as a cosmetic treatment. With proper care, veneers typically last 10-15 years or more. Candidates should have healthy teeth and gums with no active decay or periodontal disease. Book a consultation at Smileworks Dental to find out if veneers are right for you.