Veneer
Also known as: Dental veneer, porcelain veneer, composite veneer
Thin shells bonded to the front of teeth — a cosmetic alternative to implants in some cases.
Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the front surface of natural teeth to improve their appearance — changing colour, shape, size, or surface texture. They are a cosmetic treatment, not a tooth replacement solution.
Veneers vs implants
Veneers are sometimes confused with implants by patients exploring smile improvement options. They serve entirely different purposes:
- Veneers improve the appearance of existing teeth that are present, discoloured, chipped, or misshapen
- Implants replace missing teeth
When veneers might be considered alongside implants
Some patients pursuing implants to replace missing teeth also wish to improve the appearance of their remaining teeth simultaneously. Veneers on adjacent teeth can create a harmonious overall smile, with implant crowns designed to match the veneer shade and shape.
Limitations of veneers
Veneers require some removal of natural tooth structure (usually a small amount of enamel), which is irreversible. They typically last 10–20 years before replacement is needed. They are not suitable for severely damaged or structurally compromised teeth.
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