Porcelain Veneers
Thin, custom-made shells that transform your smile — natural, beautiful and built to last.
About this treatment
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made ceramic shells bonded to the front surface of a tooth. They change the colour, shape and apparent position of the visible tooth while the tooth itself stays in place.
To let a veneer sit correctly, a thin layer of enamel is usually removed. That step is irreversible: once a tooth has been prepared for a veneer, it will almost always need some form of covering from then on. This is why treatment is always preceded by an examination and a conversation about the options.
Veneers are an aesthetic treatment. They do not resolve decay, gum inflammation or bite problems — those are treated first where there is reason to.
Who this may suit
This is not a diagnosis. Whether a treatment is appropriate in your situation can only be established during an in-person examination. A conversation may be worthwhile if you recognize the following:
- Discolouration that does not respond to cleaning
- Chips or uneven edges on the front teeth
- Small gaps between the front teeth
- Teeth whose shape or proportion is out of step with the rest
Ideal if you'd like a brighter, more even smile without changing your natural tooth structure more than necessary.
Examination and treatment process
The process differs from patient to patient. In broad terms it looks like this:
Examination and conversation
We examine the teeth, gums and bite, and discuss what you want to achieve. If something else needs treating first, this is where that comes to light.
Planning and preparation
Using photographs, impressions or a digital scan, a plan is made for shape and colour. You see the starting point beforehand, so you know what you are agreeing to.
Preparation and impression
The teeth are prepared and an impression or scan is taken for the dental laboratory. Where needed, you leave with temporary restorations.
Fitting and review
The veneers are tried in, the colour and margins are checked, and they are then bonded in place. A review appointment follows shortly after.
Limitations and realistic expectations
- Preparing the tooth is irreversible.
- Porcelain can chip or come loose — through clenching, grinding or an accident, for example.
- Veneers do not change colour along with your own teeth, so a difference in shade can become visible over time.
- How long veneers last differs from person to person and depends on oral hygiene, bite and habits. No fixed lifespan can be promised.
- Veneers are not always the right choice: where alignment differs substantially, or where a lot of tooth structure has been lost, other treatments may be more appropriate.
Aftercare and maintenance
- Brush twice daily and clean between the teeth every day.
- Attend the agreed check-ups and hygiene appointments.
- Do not use your front teeth to open or bite hard objects.
- Tell us if you grind or clench — a protective night guard may then be worthwhile.
Frequently asked questions
This page is general information, not medical advice or a treatment plan. Whether a treatment is suitable and feasible depends on your oral health, the clinical situation and an examination at the practice. Outcomes, duration and cost differ from patient to patient. If you have acute symptoms, pain or a dental emergency, call the practice directly rather than using the contact form.