Veneers: What You Need to Know

Veneers are one of the most transformative cosmetic treatments in modern dentistry. If you're unhappy with the shape, colour, size or alignment of your front teeth, veneers can give you a natural-looking, durable result.

What are veneers?

A veneer is a thin, custom-made shell — usually porcelain or composite — that's bonded to the front of your tooth. Porcelain veneers are crafted in a dental lab and are highly stain-resistant; composite veneers are sculpted directly onto the tooth in one visit.

What can they fix?

Veneers are great for discoloured teeth that don't respond to whitening, chipped or worn edges, small gaps, mildly crooked teeth, and teeth that look too small or unevenly shaped.

What does the process involve?

After a consultation and smile design, we usually prepare the tooth by removing a very thin layer of enamel. We take impressions or digital scans, fit temporary veneers, then bond your final veneers at a second visit. With composite veneers, the whole process can often be done in one appointment.

How long do they last?

Porcelain veneers commonly last 10 to 15 years or more with good care, while composite veneers usually need replacing sooner — often within 5 to 8 years. Actual lifespan varies from person to person and there's no single official figure. Looking after them is simple — regular brushing, flossing, and check-ups.

Are veneers right for you?

Veneers are a bigger commitment than whitening or bonding, so it's important to be sure. We'll walk you through the pros, cons and costs honestly, and only recommend them if they're genuinely the best option for your smile.

Thinking about veneers? Book a consultation and we'll show you what's possible.