Dental Veneers

Depends on the transformation you’re after. For single-tooth concerns (a chip, a single discoloured tooth), one veneer. For subtle improvements across your smile line, 4 veneers (upper front teeth). For a complete smile transformation visible when you smile widely, 6–8 veneers. For a full makeover, 10–20 teeth. At your consultation we’ll assess your smile and recommend the right number for your goals.

Composite veneers are sculpted directly onto your teeth in one visit, are more affordable and completely reversible, but last 5–7 years before refresh. Porcelain veneers are lab-crafted over several weeks, cost more, require some tooth preparation, but last 15+ years and are more stain-resistant. For subtle changes, composite often makes sense; for full transformations, porcelain delivers superior longevity and aesthetics.

Not at Clarendons. We use a minimally invasive approach that preserves as much natural tooth structure as possible. Many veneers require 0.3–0.5mm of enamel reduction — roughly the thickness of the final veneer. In some cases (called ‘no-prep’ veneers), minimal or no preparation is needed. We’ll always minimise drilling and preserve what can be preserved.

With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years, often longer. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, diet and habits (grinding, biting hard objects). Regular check-ups and hygiene appointments extend their life significantly. When eventual replacement is needed, the process is straightforward. Composite veneers typically last 5–7 years before needing refresh or replacement.