Laminate veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells bonded to the front surface of the tooth. They are an aesthetic restoration used to change the colour, shape or size of the teeth.
When may they be considered?
- Discolouration that does not respond to whitening
- Chipped, worn or short teeth
- Misshapen teeth (for example small lateral incisors)
- Small gaps between teeth
- Mild irregularities in position
Orthodontics first, or veneers?
When marked irregularities in tooth position are “covered up” with veneers, more tooth tissue may need to be removed. For this reason, if there is crowding, spacing or a bite problem, it may be preferable to bring the teeth into a suitable position with orthodontic treatment first, and then, if needed, to place an aesthetic restoration with less reduction. For details, see our gaps between teeth treatment and clear aligner treatment pages.
The process
- Examination and planning: Tooth and gum health are assessed and expectations discussed. The result can be evaluated in advance with digital planning and trial mock-ups.
- Preparation: A thin layer of enamel is usually removed from the front surface of the tooth. In some cases very little or no reduction may be needed.
- Impression or digital scan: The veneers are custom-made in a laboratory.
- Bonding: After fit and colour are checked, the veneers are fixed to the teeth with special adhesives.
What you should know
- On teeth where enamel has been removed, the procedure is irreversible.
- Veneers can break or come off; they may need replacing over time.
- A night guard is recommended for people who clench.
- Whitening does not change the colour of veneers; if whitening is planned, it should be done before the veneers.
- If there is gum disease or active decay, it needs to be treated first.
Care
- Brush twice a day and floss as with natural teeth.
- Do not bite hard objects (pens, nails, nutshells).
- Attend regular check-ups.
Laminate veneers are not the only answer to every cosmetic concern. In some cases whitening, composite bonding or orthodontic treatment may be more conservative options. Which option suits you is assessed at the examination.
