Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic restorations that may be used to change the visible shape, shade, size or proportions of teeth in suitable patients. Treatment usually involves removing a small amount of tooth structure and may not be appropriate for every patient. Suitability, risks, alternatives, maintenance and likely outcomes are assessed during consultation.
At next level dentistry, porcelain veneer treatment begins with clinical assessment, treatment planning and a discussion of the patient’s goals. Dr Angelo Lazaris plans veneer cases with consideration of facial proportions, oral health, bite, existing tooth structure and long-term maintenance requirements.
Read about the risks, limitations and alternatives of veneer treatment
how porcelain veneer treatment is planned
Porcelain veneers are one treatment option for suitable patients. In some cases, veneers may require less tooth reduction than crowns, but this depends on the condition, position and structure of the teeth. Alternatives may include composite bonding, whitening, orthodontic treatment, crowns or no treatment at all. Veneers are not indicated to correct tooth misalignment; crowded or misaligned teeth need to be repositioned first. A night guard is provided to every veneer patient, and wearing it each night is a required part of maintenance. Images on this page show outcomes for individual patients. Results vary, and the outcomes shown do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience. Suitability, risks, limitations, alternatives and maintenance requirements can only be assessed after consultation. Dr Angelo Lazaris (DEN0001619333). Registered dentist, general registration.
Digital planning tools may be used to assess tooth shape, proportions and treatment options. Any proposed treatment is discussed with the patient before treatment begins, including risks, limitations, maintenance and expected longevity.
possible benefits and limitations
For suitable patients, porcelain veneers may assist with changes to tooth colour, shape, size, surface texture or spacing. Outcomes vary between patients and depend on oral health, bite, tooth structure, habits, maintenance and other clinical factors.
natural aesthetics
Hand-layered porcelain creates the 3D optical effects – depth, translucency and light reflection – found in natural teeth.
minimal tooth reduction
Veneer preparation aims to remove as little tooth structure as clinically necessary. The amount varies between patients and is explained before treatment.
longevity
Published long-term studies report estimated 10-year survival of about 93–96% for porcelain veneers (Beier et al. 2012; Layton & Walton 2012). “Survival” in these studies means the veneer remained in place; it does not mean it was free of chipping, repair or other complications. These are group figures from other clinics, not a prediction for any individual patient. Longevity varies with oral health, bite, grinding, tooth vitality, hygiene, maintenance and review attendance.
Before (top) and After (bottom)
Before (top) and After (bottom)
How we work
Our treatment planning process is designed to help patients understand their options before proceeding. The process may include digital records, assessment, planning, trial designs where appropriate, tooth preparation, provisional restorations and review appointments.
digital analysis and smile design
We create a complete digital avatar using advanced imaging, and Dr Lazaris designs your smile using proportions derived from nature to complement your facial features.
preview your new smile
Before any treatment begins, we create a physical mockup of your new smile so you can review and approve the proposed design before the final veneers are placed.
minimal tooth preparation
Using high magnification and biomimetic principles, we perform minimal, precise preparation whilst preserving maximum natural tooth structure.
provisional restorations
Your porcelain veneers are made in a dental laboratory. During this time, temporary restorations are placed over your prepared teeth.
treatment placement and review
Veneers are bonded after clinical checks are completed. Review and aftercare instructions are provided, including maintenance requirements and factors that may affect longevity.
Frequently asked questions
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Veneers are not lifetime restorations. Published long-term studies report estimated survival of about 93–96% at 10 years and about 83–91% at 20 years (Beier et al., Int J Prosthodont 2012;25:79-85; Layton & Walton, Int J Prosthodont 2012;25:604-612). These are averages for groups of patients treated at other clinics, under particular conditions. In one study, grinding (bruxism) increased the risk of failure about 7.7 times, and nonvital teeth also failed more often. Your veneers’ lifespan depends on your oral health, bite, habits, maintenance and regular review, and will be discussed at consultation.
How much tooth structure needs to be removed?
Veneers generally require less tooth reduction than full crowns (Edelhoff & Sorensen 2002). The amount removed depends on the case and is irreversible.
Will my veneers look natural?
Porcelain layering techniques are used to match veneers to the shade, shape and translucency of natural teeth. Results vary between patients and depend on the patient’s existing tooth structure, facial features and the agreed treatment plan.
What is the difference between hand-crafted and machine-made veneers?
Hand-layered glass porcelain veneers are built up in a dental laboratory in layers of varying shade and translucency, which allows closer colour and translucency matching to natural teeth than some machine-milled alternatives. Suitability and outcome depend on the individual case.
How do I care for my porcelain veneers?
Care for your veneers like natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Avoid using teeth as tools, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, and avoid extremely hard foods that could cause damage.
Can porcelain veneers be repaired if damaged?
Porcelain veneers can chip, fracture or debond. Dr Lazaris will assess each case individually to determine whether repair or replacement is appropriate.