Porcelain Veneers & Crowns

A veneer is a thin, custom-made shell that covers just the front surface of a tooth, helping to improve its shape, colour, or alignment. A crown, in contrast, covers the entire tooth, providing both cosmetic improvement and added strength, making it ideal for teeth that are weakened, worn, or heavily restored.

Porcelain veneers are a thin, custom-made shell that covers just the front surface of a tooth, helping to improve its shape, colour, or alignment.

Composite veneers are made from a tooth-coloured resin material that is applied directly to the tooth. They can be used to make small to moderate changes in shape, repair chips or cracks, correct misalignment or unevenness, improve discolouration or wear, and close small gaps between teeth. Composite veneers are typically made and fitted in a single visit, as they are crafted in-house without the need for a dental laboratory.

Veneers are a durable option to enhance both the appearance and function of your teeth, typically lasting between 10 and 25 years. While ceramic veneers are strong and resistant to breaking, they can chip or fracture if subjected to trauma or excessive force, similar to natural teeth. Veneers can also wear or become damaged over time, particularly if you grind or clench your teeth. Their appearance should remain excellent indefinitely, though you may choose to replace them if gum recession exposes the edges or staining occurs. It’s rare for a veneer to detach, but this can happen if bonding is compromised, suggesting a crown may have been more appropriate, or, less commonly, due to a materials or handling issue.

Crowns, on the other hand, cover the entire tooth and, like veneers, can still be subject to fracture or decay. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, crowns can last many years. The material used affects their durability, but other factors—such as aesthetics, longevity, and how they interact with opposing teeth—are also important to consider. Discussing the options with your dentist will help ensure you choose the most suitable solution for your smile.

It’s important to understand that the cost of any dental treatment can vary between patients, depending on the complexity of the procedure, and who performs the treatment. No two mouths are the same, and so dentists will not necessarily be able to give you an exact cost until they have thoroughly examined your teeth.

Although veneers might be considered expensive, with porcelain veneers costing more than composite veneers, patients are usually very satisfied with the results and admit that the benefits, such as improved aesthetics and (in the case of porcelain) a stronger material far outweigh the cost. There are a few different costs involved with veneers, from the X-rays to the process of bonding the veneers and the cost of the material itself.

Choosing between composite and porcelain veneers depends on your individual goals, budget, and the outcome you hope to achieve. The best option for you can be determined through a thorough assessment and discussion with your dentist, who will consider your teeth, bite, and desired results.

Composite veneers are applied directly to your teeth using a process called dental bonding (the same method used for composite fillings). They can usually be completed in a single visit and are more affordable upfront. However, composite veneers are not as strong as porcelain, are slightly porous, and require regular maintenance. Over time, they can lose their lustre or discolour, which may require polishing or replacement, adding to long-term costs.

Porcelain veneers are more durable and natural-looking, resist staining, and require less maintenance, making them a cost-effective option over time. They are custom-made, either in a dental laboratory or chair-side, and are usually placed during a second visit after your initial consultation.

Ultimately, your clinician will guide you on which option best suits your teeth, lifestyle, and smile goals to ensure the most predictable and lasting results.

Your clinician will advise you on any special care requirements for your new restorations, as well as any follow-up appointments needed to monitor your progress. Maintaining a good dental hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular scale and clean appointments with your dental hygienist, is essential.

While the porcelain or composite used in veneers cannot decay, the underlying teeth can still be affected, particularly at the exposed edges or where the veneer joins the natural tooth. Veneers can help protect your teeth from decay, especially when used alongside fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.

Crowns function like natural teeth and are very durable, but they also require proper care. Brushing and flossing around the crown, along with regular dental check-ups and the use of remineralising toothpaste, helps minimise the risk of decay and ensures your restoration lasts as long as possible.