Quick answer: Porcelain veneers are thin custom shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their colour, shape, length or apparent alignment. They suit patients with chips, worn edges, gaps, deep staining or mildly irregular front teeth. Because a thin layer of enamel is usually removed, veneers are a permanent commitment.
What a veneer is
A veneer covers the visible front surface of a tooth. It is thin — comparable to a contact lens in some cases — and is bonded in place. Unlike a crown, which encircles the whole tooth, a veneer changes only what you see when someone smiles.
What veneers do well
- Deep staining that whitening will not lift. Some discolouration is inside the tooth and does not respond to peroxide.
- Chips and worn edges on front teeth.
- Gaps between front teeth, where closing the space with porcelain is simpler than moving the teeth.
- Mildly irregular alignment — teeth that are slightly rotated or uneven in length.
- Teeth that are misshapen or unusually small.
What veneers are not for
Veneers do not treat decay, gum disease or a failing tooth. They are not a substitute for orthodontics where teeth are significantly out of position — clear aligners often produce a better and more conservative result there. They are also poorly suited to patients who grind heavily unless the grinding is managed first.
What the process involves
A cosmetic consultation and examination come first, to confirm the teeth and gums are healthy and to establish what you want changed. A small amount of enamel is usually removed from the front of each tooth so that the veneer sits flush rather than proud. Impressions or a digital scan are taken, temporaries are placed, and the veneers are made and then bonded at a subsequent visit.
If you are also planning whitening, do it first. Veneers are matched to the shade of your teeth at the time they are made, and they will not lighten later.
The part people should think hardest about
Because enamel is removed, veneers are effectively permanent. A veneered tooth will always need a veneer or a crown from that point on. That is not a reason to avoid them — it is a reason to be certain about the decision, to see a mock-up or trial where possible, and to be clear with the dentist about what you are hoping for.
Looking after them
Brush and floss normally; the margin where porcelain meets tooth needs the same care as a crown margin. Avoid biting nails, pens or packaging. If you grind, wear the night guard. Keep to your cleaning schedule so the gum line stays healthy.
Finding out whether they suit you
Call (860) 756-5423 to arrange a consultation, or look at completed cases in our smile gallery.
Frequently asked questions
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With good home care and regular check-ups, porcelain veneers commonly last well over a decade. Grinding, biting hard objects and gum recession at the margin are the main things that shorten their life.
Do veneers ruin your teeth?
They do not damage a healthy tooth, but they do change it permanently, because a thin layer of enamel is usually removed so the veneer sits flush. From then on the tooth will always need a veneer or crown covering it.
Can veneers straighten crooked teeth?
They can make mildly irregular teeth look straight. Where teeth are significantly out of position, clear aligners are usually the better and more conservative option, because they move the actual teeth rather than masking them.
Should I whiten before getting veneers?
Yes. Veneers are matched to your tooth shade at the time they are made and do not lighten afterwards. Whitening first means the new veneers can be matched to the lighter shade.
Are veneers suitable if I grind my teeth?
Grinding puts porcelain at risk of chipping. It does not rule veneers out, but the grinding usually needs managing first, often with a night guard, and that should be part of the conversation before treatment starts.
Book with Connecticut Family Dental Group
Connecticut Family Dental Group is at 88 New Britain Avenue, Rocky Hill, CT 06067. Call (860) 756-5423 or request an appointment. The practice is open Monday through Thursday.
This article is general information for patients and is not a substitute for an examination or individual clinical advice. If something in your mouth is painful, swollen or changing, call the practice.