dentist
logo image
dentist

Veneers are an important tool for the cosmetic dentist. A dentist may use one veneer to restore a single tooth that may have been fractured or discolored, or multiple veneers to create a type of makeover. You’ve probably heard about dental veneers but how exactly are they manufactured? Find out about the procedure, indications, care and risks

Veneers


Last Updated: 8.12.2023

Author: George Ghidrai, MD  

A veneer is a thin layer of material placed over a tooth, either to improve the aesthetics of a tooth or to protect the tooth's surface from damage. There are two main types of material used to fabricate a veneer: dental composite and porcelain.

veneer

veneer

Normally, a veneer is fabricated by a dental technician in a dental laboratory and later bonded to the tooth, using specific multi-shade resin cement (indirect technique). However, some composite veneers may be directly built-up in the mouth.

Indications

Veneers are an important tool for the cosmetic dentist. A dentist may use one veneer to restore a single tooth that may have been fractured or discolored, or multiple veneers to create a type of makeover.

Indications may include:

  • Unsightly stains on the surface of teeth or yellow teeth that won't whiten

    veneers indications: whitening teeth veneers indications: whitening teeth veneers indications: whitening teeth
  • Small cavities or enamel defects

  • Worn teeth resulting in a prematurely aged appearance

  • Teeth that have been shortened by wear

  • Black triangles between teeth caused by gum recession

  • Veneers can be used to close unsightly gaps between teeth

    veneers indications: closing gaps between teeth veneers indications: closing gaps between teeth veneers indications: closing gaps between teeth
  • Malpositioned teeth that appear crooked: veneers can provide a uniform color, shape, and symmetry, and make the teeth appear straight

    veneers indications: make crooked teeth appear straight veneers indications: make crooked teeth appear straight veneers indications: make crooked teeth appear straight


Dental veneer procedure

Dental veneers can often be completed in two dental visits. If a composite veneer is directly built-up or the CAD/CAM technology is used, a veneer can be completed in one visit.

  1. Clinical examination

    The diagnostic and examination phase of dental veneer treatment is essential and identifies any oral health concerns that must first be addressed before veneer placement.

    The best color is selected from the shade guide and imaging technologies can provide a preview of the expected results.


  2. Tooth preparation

    In many cases, minimal to no tooth preparation is needed.

    After a local anesthetic is administered, the dentist will prepare the natural tooth (or teeth) by minimally reshaping it with dental burs attached to a hand-piece.

    Usually, these burs are made of diamond or tungsten carbide and come in a range of sizes and shapes to allow precise and minimal shaping.

    dental veneers: tooth preparation

    tooth preparation for a dental veneer

    dental veneers: prepared teeth

    front teeth after the preparation


  3. Direct build-up

    If direct composite resin veneers are designed, the dentist will apply the appropriately shaded composite to the teeth, shape the material and harden it using a curing-light.

    Additional layers of composite may be applied to build the veneer to the correct shape, length and form.

    When all composite is placed, the veneers will be finished and polished using burs and polishers to create a vital and life-like smile.


  4. Indirect veneers

    If the treatment requires porcelain veneers or indirect composite veneers, the dentist will make an impression of the prepared teeth and send it to a dental lab. The dental technician will create a dental mould (or dental cast) and fabricate the veneers.

    porcelain veneers on a dental mould

    porcelain veneers on a dental mould

    It is possible to place temporary veneers until the definitive ones are fabricated. Temporary veneers may not always be placed; when enough enamel remains on the surface of teeth, the dentist may forgo the temporary process.

    The dental technician can use the CAD/CAM technology to fabricate the veneers (if it is available). This will shorten the process as the veneers can be made, bonded and adjusted onto the teeth in one visit.


  5. Fitting and fixing

    Regardless of the technique used, during the veneer placement appointment, the dentist will remove the temporaries and evaluate and adjust the newly placed veneers to ensure the optimal fit and color.

    porcelain veneers, fitting and bonding

    porcelain veneer, fitting and bonding

    Usually, dental veneers are bonded to the tooth, typically using multi-shade resin cement to provide the best aesthetics.


Care and risks

Veneers are durable and have been shown to last for many years before requiring replacement. However, it is important to brush and floss the teeth properly and visit the dentist and/or hygienist for regular examinations and dental cleanings.

Like other porcelain restorations, chipping and fractures may occur. To reduce the risk of damage, it is advisable not to bite or chew on hard objects such as nut shells, bones or others.


Porcelain veneers vs composite veneers

What are the main differences between composite and porcelain veneers and how to choose between composite and porcelain veneers ? Find out by reading this article.




Dental Implants: The Complete Patient's Guide - book's cover image

E-book or Paperback

This detailed guide, easy to read and clearly illustrated, will help you make informed decisions when you are planning for dental implants.

Learn More






Latest articles

The 6 Best at Home Teeth Whitening Procedures in 2024 Compared

Explore and compare the most efficient at-home teeth whitening products to confidently decide which ones are best for your needs ...more

The Different Types of Oral Surgeries for Periodontal Diseases

This guide will walk you through the different types of oral surgeries available for periodontal disease, helping you understand your options and what to expect ...more

The Dos and Don'ts of Dental Implants Before and After Surgery

Learning the right steps for caring for dental implants before and after surgery can significantly impact your results ...more

What are the 5 Stages of a Tooth Abscess?

Discover the signs and symptoms you may experience at each stage and the best actions you can take to prevent complications and restore your oral health ...more

Partial Dentures for Back Teeth - All You Need to Know

Learn when partial dentures may be a good alternative for restoring your back teeth and what to expect from your newly made dentures ...more

The Latest Technology Advancements in All-on-X Dental Implants

Explore the latest technology advancements in All-on-X dental implants and iscover how cutting-edge innovations enhance dental restoration ...more

The Top Reasons Why You Might Need an Emergency Dental Extraction

Understanding the common reasons for these urgent procedures can help you recognize the signs early and seek prompt care ...more

Pros and Cons: The Differences between Dental Bridges and Implants

Explore the pros and cons of dental bridges vs implants. Understand the differences between these tooth replacement options to make an informed decision ...more