A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain which is glued onto the front of a tooth to make it look better. This may be done to repair a broken or misshapen tooth or simply to mask discolouration.
Method: Two appointments are needed to make a veneer. The first lasts about an hour and involves preparing the tooth by removing a thin layer from the front. The amount of preparation required depends on how badly damaged the tooth is. An impression of the tooth is then taken using a putty-like material. This is sent to the laboratory where a technician then makes the veneer by hand. The finished veneer is glued into place at a second appointment, about two weeks later.
Once cemented, veneers are very strong but should still be treated with care. They may crack or fall off if the tooth is knocked. Veneers make the tooth look better and can protect the tooth from further damage. They are most appropriate for teeth which are slightly damaged.
To improve the appearance of teeth which are not broken, tooth whitening may be more appropriate. For heavily filled or badly damaged teeth, a crown may be a better option.
Before:
After:
Before:
After (4 front crowns and 2 veneers):