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.
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.
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 stunning 3D optical effects that perfectly mimic natural tooth structure and light reflection.
minimal tooth reduction
Preserve up to 97% of your natural tooth structure with our conservative, biomimetic approach to veneer preparation.
exceptional durability
Our veneers demonstrate 93% survival rate at 10 years. In an internal review of patients who returned for continuing care, 93% of reviewed porcelain veneers remained in place at 10 years. This internal review may not reflect outcomes for all patients. Longevity varies between patients and depends on oral health, bite, habits, trauma, hygiene, maintenance and review attendance.
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 ideal smile using ideals 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 evaluate and approve the final result with complete confidence.
minimal tooth preparation
Using high magnification and biomimetic principles, we perform minimal, precise preparation whilst preserving maximum natural tooth structure.
relaxed treatment experience
Your custom porcelain veneers are hand-crafted in a dental laboratory whilst you remain comfortable with temporary restorations that protect 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?
In an internal review of patients who returned for continuing care, 93% of reviewed porcelain veneers remained in place at 10 years and 80% at 20 years. This internal review may not reflect outcomes for all patients. Longevity depends on oral health, bite, habits, maintenance and regular review attendance.
How much tooth structure needs to be removed?
Unlike traditional crowns that require removal of up to 75% of tooth structure, our biomimetic approach requires minimal reduction, as little as 3% of your natural tooth. This conservative method preserves tooth strength and health.
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?
While porcelain veneers are extremely durable, any restoration can potentially be damaged. Dr Lazaris will assess each case individually to determine the best approach for repair or replacement whilst preserving maximum natural tooth structure.