CDCP is now open to all eligible Canadians of every age.See if you qualify

Porcelain Veneers: Planning, Process, and Care

What is a porcelain veneer?

A porcelain veneer is a thin restoration attached to the front of a tooth to change its visible shape or colour. Veneers may be discussed for selected cosmetic concerns, but they do not treat every bite, alignment, or tooth-health problem. The dentist needs to check your teeth and gums before planning appearance changes.

What should be decided before treatment?

Discuss the result you want, how many teeth are involved, the shade you prefer, and how the proposed shape fits your face and bite. Ask whether any enamel must be removed and whether that step is reversible. If there is decay, gum disease, grinding, or a bite problem, the dentist may recommend addressing it first.

What can the process involve?

Planning may include photographs, scans or impressions, preparation of the tooth surface, and a temporary phase before final veneers are fitted. The dentist checks the appearance and bite before bonding. The exact steps depend on the design. Ask to understand the limits of the proposed result before treatment begins.

Care and alternatives

Veneers can chip, stain at their margins, or need replacement. Continue brushing, cleaning between teeth, and having dental reviews. Ask whether whitening, bonding, orthodontics, or no treatment would better meet your goal. The veneer service page is where to enquire about clinic-specific care; this guide is for understanding the procedure.

Frequently asked questions

Are veneers permanent?
Tooth preparation may be irreversible, and veneers may need replacement over time.
Will veneers straighten my teeth?
They can change appearance in some cases, but they do not move teeth like orthodontic treatment.
Can I whiten veneers later?
Whitening products do not change porcelain shade.