Cosmetic, Implant and General DentistryPorcelain Veneers in Luton
A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain bonded to the front of a tooth, used to change its shape, colour, or position without the more invasive work a crown requires. Dental veneers are one of the most requested cosmetic treatments at our Luton practice. We fit them for patients dealing with a single discoloured or chipped tooth right through to a full smile makeover across the visible front teeth.
What Porcelain Veneers Can (and Can’t) Fix
Veneers work well for discolouration that won’t respond to whitening, small chips, gaps between front teeth, and teeth that are slightly misaligned where orthodontic treatment isn’t wanted or suitable. They aren’t a substitute for orthodontics if teeth are significantly out of position, and they aren’t reversible once the enamel surface has been prepared. Your dentist will talk through whether veneers are genuinely the right fit for what you want to change, and will be honest if a different treatment (whitening, Invisalign, or composite bonding) would achieve it with less intervention.
Two Visits to a New Smile
A small amount of enamel, roughly the thickness of the veneer itself, is removed from the front of the tooth so the veneer sits flush and the tooth stays the same overall size. An impression is taken, and your veneers are made to match the shade and shape you’ve agreed with your dentist. They’re bonded into place at a second visit using a strong dental adhesive.
Protecting Your Veneers Long-Term
Veneers are cared for like natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing and check-ups. We’d advise avoiding biting directly into very hard foods with veneered teeth, and letting us know if you grind your teeth at night, as a night guard may be recommended to protect the veneers.
Veneer fees
| Treatment | Fee |
|---|---|
| Porcelain Veneer | £800 per tooth |
1. What is a dental veneer?
A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain (or sometimes a tooth-coloured composite material) custom-made to fit over the front surface of a tooth, rather like a false fingernail fits over a nail. It’s designed to improve the appearance of the tooth beneath it.
2. What problems can veneers help with?
Veneers may help if you’re unhappy with the size, shape or symmetry of your teeth, twisted teeth, small gaps, discoloured patches, or how much of a tooth shows when you smile. Our dentist will assess your teeth to confirm whether veneers are a suitable option for your particular concern.
3. Can a veneer fix a chipped tooth?
Yes, in many cases. The porcelain can cover the whole front of the tooth, with a thicker section used to replace the chipped area, helping the tooth look intact again.
4. Can veneers close gaps between teeth?
Veneers can sometimes be used to close small gaps, particularly where orthodontic treatment (braces) isn’t suitable or preferred. They can also help bring a slightly misaligned tooth visually into line with the others. Our dentist will advise whether this is appropriate for your specific case.
5. How is a tooth prepared for a veneer?
A small amount of the outer enamel surface is usually removed so the veneer can be bonded securely. The amount removed is minimal and matches the thickness of the veneer, so the tooth stays roughly the same size. A local anaesthetic may be used, though this isn’t always necessary. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to the dental technician, along with shade matching to ensure the veneer blends with your surrounding teeth.
6. Does having a veneer fitted hurt?
Preparation is generally straightforward, and a local anaesthetic can be used if needed, though it isn’t always required. Please let our dentist know if you have any concerns about discomfort so they can talk you through what to expect.
7. How many appointments does veneer treatment take?
Veneer treatment usually takes at least two visits: the first to prepare the tooth and match the shade, and the second to fit the veneer. Before it’s permanently bonded, our dentist will show you the veneer in place to make sure you’re happy with it.
8. What happens after my veneer is fitted?
Only minor adjustments can be made once a veneer is fitted, so it’s usually best to allow a little time to get used to it before requesting any changes. Our dentist will often check and polish it around a week later to make sure you’re happy with the result.
9. How long do veneers last, and can they be repaired?
Veneers are designed to last for many years, though like natural teeth, they can chip or break. Our dentist can give you a more specific estimate based on your individual case. Small chips can sometimes be repaired, or a new veneer fitted if required.
10. How much do veneers cost?
Porcelain veneers at USmile Dental start from £800 per tooth, though the final cost depends on the material used and the number of teeth treated. We recommend a consultation with our dentist so we can assess your teeth and provide a written estimate and treatment plan before starting any treatment.