Veneers Fact Sheet

The objective

Veneers are a way of cosmetically restoring chipped, discoloured or misshapen teeth to recreate a natural look by using specially made and shade-matched thin porcelain layers that are fitted over the teeth, almost like false finger nails. Veneers can also be used to close small gaps.

The procedure

The procedure normally involves two appointments and can be carried out under local anaesthetic, taking up to 30 minutes each.

The dentist will anaesthetise the gum and nerve of the tooth to prepare it for the veneer. This is done by filing a tiny amount of the outer surface of the tooth enamel to make a surface ready for the veneer attachment. An impression of the tooth will then be made, and the shade of it matched to the other teeth, so that the veneer can fit well to the tooth and those surrounding. The prepared tooth will be covered with a temporary veneer until the permanent one is made. At the second appointment, the veneer will be fitted to the tooth with special dental adhesive.

The outcome

Following the procedure, there should be no pain or discomfort, although sometimes the tooth can be sensitive as it adjusts. Sometimes, minor adjustments may need to be made to the veneer.

You can return to work immediately and resume all activities as normal.

Once the veneer has been fixed after the second appointment, a natural-looking tooth should be the result of this procedure. Veneers are normally permanent, though can break or chip like natural teeth and may need replacing or repairing.

The risks

There are few risks associated with veneers. However, problems may include temporary increased sensitivity in the tooth.

The veneer itself cannot decay, but decay can start where the edge of the veneer joins the tooth. Keeping the veneer clean and brushed is important to prevent this from happening.

Sometimes, with natural healing and also gum disease, shrinkage can occur between the gum and veneer, leaving a tiny amount of exposed tooth. When this happens, this exposed surface can discolour and may look unsightly. To minimise this happening it is important that the gum is healthy prior to veneers being fitted. Also regular reviews with your dentist and hygienist will reduce the chance of any shrinkage.

The costs

Privately in the UK, expect to pay from around £580 per veneer. Abroad, expect to pay from around £230 per veneer (Hungary). As veneers are mostly seen as cosmetic, treatment under the NHS is rarely available as there must be a clinical need.

The availability

Veneer placement is a procedure that is available at most dentists both within the UK, including NHS and private dentists, as well as abroad.

The popularity

The veneer is a popular dental treatment and is most commonly used by people who would like to improve the appearance of a tooth which is misshaped, discoloured (for example, if the nerve has died) or stained, or where there is a gap next to the teeth on either side. It is mainly a cosmetic treatment although in some cases can be considered clinical.