Veneers
veneers · porcelain veneers · composite veneers · dental veneers
Veneers are thin shells on the front of the teeth. They change the color and shape of the teeth.
When you want to change the color, shape, or small flaws of your front teeth, and whitening does not help.
⏱ Duration: usually 2 to 3 visits over 1 to 3 weeks; one visit usually takes 1 to 2 hours
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Treatment. Tooth decay and gum problems must be treated first, and a cleaning done.
- Color. If you want to whiten your other teeth, do it before the veneers. Their color does not change later.
- Wishes. Bring photos of a smile you like.
What to bring
- Your ID
- Photos of the smile you want, if you have them
How it goes
- The dentist examines your teeth and discusses shape and color
- Often a trial of the future teeth is made first from temporary material
- With numbing, a thin layer of enamel is removed from the teeth, though not always
- An impression or scan is taken, and temporary veneers are put on
- At the next visit, the finished veneers are bonded on
- Your bite is checked
What you'll feel
- With numbing, it does not hurt
- At first, the teeth feel unusual, and your tongue notices them
- There may be sensitivity to cold for a few days
Afterwards
- Do not bite hard things: nuts, pits, ice, or pens
- Brush as usual and floss
- If you grind your teeth at night, the dentist will suggest a night guard
- Checkups every 6 months
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A veneer chips or comes off: keep it and book a dental visit
Common questions
How long do veneers last?
Usually many years, if you take care of them. It depends on the material. Ask your dentist.
Do the teeth need to be filed down?
Usually a little enamel is removed. Sometimes veneers are placed with almost no filing. Your dentist will say if that is possible for you.