Porcelain Veneers (Laminate Veneers)

Thin porcelain shells, 0.3 to 0.7 mm thick, bonded to the front of the teeth to correct colour, shape and small gaps.

Duration

2 to 3 visits over 1 to 2 weeks

Anaesthesia

Local

Tooth reduction

0.3 to 0.7 mm

Longevity

10 to 15 years

What is a porcelain veneer?

A veneer is a porcelain shell about the thickness of a fingernail bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Only the front of the tooth is lightly reduced; the back and most of the biting edge are preserved. Colour, shape, small gaps and mild crowding are corrected this way.

Who is a candidate?

• Dark discolouration that whitening cannot lift
• Chipped, worn or undersized front teeth
• Gaps between the front teeth
• Mild crowding in people who do not want braces

People who grind their teeth wear a night guard with veneers. Teeth with very large fillings are safer with a full crown than a veneer.

How is it done?

Planning

A design is prepared from a digital scan and photographs and tried in the mouth. Colour and shape are finalised here.

Preparation

The front surfaces are reduced very slightly, impressions are taken and temporary veneers are fitted. This visit is done under local anaesthesia.

Bonding

The porcelain from the laboratory is tried in, and once approved it is bonded to the teeth with a special adhesive. The bite is checked and the veneers are polished.

Care and lifespan

Porcelain veneers do not stain or change colour. They last ten to fifteen years and often longer. Avoid nail biting, chewing pens and cracking hard shells with the front teeth. Daily brushing and flossing continue as normal.

How do they differ from zirconia crowns?

A crown covers the whole tooth and needs more reduction. A veneer covers only the front surface, which makes it the most tooth-preserving cosmetic option. Which one is suitable depends on the condition of the tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medically reviewed by

Prof. Dr. İbrahim Bülent ŞERMETProsthodontics