Dental veneers
Dental veneers
Dental veneers: elegant and natural
A dental veneer is usually made from ceramic or porcelain. It is a very thin shell placed on the visible front surface of a tooth to correct cosmetic imperfections. A veneer can improve the appearance of worn, discoloured or slightly misaligned teeth, as well as small gaps between teeth. Veneers are mainly placed on the front teeth—the teeth visible when you smile. Each veneer is custom-made to achieve a natural-looking and durable result.
Although veneers are not yet familiar to everyone, in certain cases they can offer an attractive cosmetic alternative to more extensive treatment. They may be suitable for patients seeking a more harmonious smile without major treatment. When clinically appropriate, the process is generally efficient and precise, with a clearly visible result.
When may a dental veneer be recommended?
Veneers may be considered if you would like to:
Some teeth can become permanently discoloured due to factors such as medication, smoking, coffee, tea or ageing. When conventional tooth whitening is not sufficient or does not provide a stable result, veneers may offer a more predictable cosmetic solution.
Veneers can correct the shape of teeth that are too short, too small or cracked, for example following an everyday accident. They can harmonise differences between teeth and reshape the proportions of the smile.
For minor alignment discrepancies, veneers may improve the visible alignment of the teeth. Whether veneers or orthodontic treatment are most appropriate is determined after a clinical examination and a discussion of the available treatment options.
How long does the placement of dental veneers take?
When the main goal is to improve tooth colour, the treatment process can be relatively straightforward. Correcting tooth shape, masking a crack or redesigning the smile requires more planning and precision. One or more cosmetic trial stages may then help us prepare a result that looks as natural as possible.
Before the definitive veneers are made, we can create a ‘mock-up’ (trial model) so that you can preview your future smile. The process is generally less invasive than treatment with a crown or implant and usually proceeds as follows:
- First appointment: we discuss your expectations, take photographs and measurements, and make an impression, often digitally. Depending on your situation, X-rays may be needed to establish a reliable diagnosis and a safe treatment plan.
- Second stage: based on the cosmetic design, a trial or ‘mock-up’ may be created. This allows us to test the shape and volume in your mouth and assess the result together before the definitive veneers are produced.
- If necessary, the enamel is minimally prepared to ensure optimal integration. This step is quick and can generally be carried out comfortably.
- The definitive placement is usually performed under local anaesthesia. The appointment often lasts one to two hours because each veneer is carefully tried in, adjusted and bonded. We use digital tools, such as an optical scan, to achieve an optimal fit. A complete cosmetic treatment may require two to three appointments, depending on your situation.
Care and lifespan of dental veneers
In the days following placement, the gums and surrounding tissues begin to adapt. You can resume your normal daily oral-hygiene routine. Although you may be more cautious at first, regular and thorough brushing remains essential. We recommend that you:
- Use a high-quality toothbrush;
- Complement brushing with dental floss and/or an oral irrigator;
- Schedule regular professional dental cleanings at the clinic.
Good oral hygiene is essential for preserving the appearance and longevity of your veneers. Depending on the material, manufacturing quality, precision of placement and your oral habits, veneers can often last between ten and twenty years. Daily care and regular check-ups are therefore essential.
Veneers may be suitable for correcting minor imperfections and achieving a more balanced cosmetic result. When clinically appropriate, the process is generally efficient and can produce a clearly visible improvement.
The price of one dental veneer is €1,000
