What are veneers?
A veneer is a thin tooth-coloured shell placed on the front surface of a tooth. They are made from ceramic, porcelain or a composite material.
Veneers offer a minimally invasive way to transform a tooth as only a very thin layer of enamel is removed prior to fitting.
What do veneers treat?
Veneers are popular for patients who want to fix minor issues with their front teeth. They can conceal common problems such as:
- Poorly formed or misaligned teeth
- Unsightly gaps
- Discolouration that is unaffected by tooth whitening
- Chipped or broken teeth
What does the treatment involve?
- A thin layer of enamel from the surface of the tooth is removed to accommodate the veneer. A local anaesthetic may be used to make sure that there is no discomfort, but often this is not needed.
- Once the tooth has been prepared, impressions (moulds) will be taken so that a customised veneer can be made. The colour of the surrounding teeth is matched on a shade guide to make sure that the veneer will look entirely natural.
- At the second visit, the veneer is bonded to your tooth with a strong dental adhesive.
Looking after your veneer
Veneers are tough restorations, but they can be damaged if not treated with care. Cut up hard foods before eating and do not open anything with your teeth, such as crisp packets or bottles, and avoid biting your nails or chewing pencils.
Frequently asked questions
Veneers are thin, custom cosmetic coverings that are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve the appearance of stains, chips, gaps or minor imperfections, creating a more uniform, attractive smile.
They’re commonly used to mask discoloured or uneven teeth, close small gaps, repair chipped edges or improve minor misalignment for a more confident smile.
Dentists typically offer porcelain veneers (more durable and stain‑resistant) or composite veneers (more affordable, often completed in fewer visits). Your dentist can advise which is right for you based on your smile goals and budget.
The treatment usually involves multiple appointments — one to plan and prepare, and another to place the veneers — depending on the complexity and type chosen.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anaesthesia is typically used if needed, and modern techniques make the process as comfortable as possible.