Porcelain veneers
Thin porcelain shells bonded to the front teeth correct color, length and shape. In suitable cases, prepless veneers with no tooth preparation are also an option.
Last updated: 9 November 2026
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are porcelain shells about as thin as a contact lens, bonded to the front surface of the teeth. Unlike crowns, which cover the whole tooth, they cover only the visible surface, so much less tooth structure is removed.
In suitable cases, prepless veneers applied without touching the tooth are also an option. Which method suits you is decided at the examination.
When are they used?
- Discoloration from medicines or fluorosis that does not respond to whitening,
- Small chips and wear on the front teeth,
- Gaps between the teeth,
- Front teeth that are short, uneven in shape or slightly crooked,
- Old, stained front fillings that need replacing.
Patients with severe crowding, heavy clenching or untreated gum disease need these problems addressed first. In some cases a zirconia crown may be a better option.
Send us your question and our dentist will answer based on your situation. A definite plan cannot be made without an examination; the first step is a short consultation.
Treatment steps
- Examination and planning. Teeth and gums are checked; the new smile is planned with photographs and impressions.
- Preparing the tooth surface. If needed, a limited amount of enamel is removed under local anesthesia.
- Impressions and temporary veneers. Impressions go to the laboratory; temporary veneers are fitted in the meantime if needed.
- Trial and bonding. Color and fit are checked, and with your approval the veneers are bonded permanently.
- Follow-up. Your bite and gum fit are reviewed a few days later.
Care and things to watch
Porcelain veneers resist staining from tea, coffee and smoking better than natural teeth, but the tooth and gum around their edges need regular care. Brushing twice a day, flossing and a check-up every six months are recommended. Avoid biting hard objects with your front teeth, and use a night guard if you clench at night.
Frequently asked questions
Will my teeth be cut down a lot for veneers?
With porcelain veneers, only a limited amount is removed from the front surface, usually within the enamel. In suitable cases, prepless veneers can be done without touching the tooth.
How many visits do porcelain veneers take?
Usually a few appointments: examination and planning, preparation and impressions, trial and bonding.
Do porcelain veneers change color?
The porcelain surface resists staining. Regular care is important for the health of the edges and gums.
Veneers or zirconia?
If the tooth structure is healthy and well positioned, veneers need less preparation. If a tooth has a large filling, a root canal treatment or significant loss of structure, a zirconia crown may be more suitable. We decide together at the examination.
Do veneers require cutting the teeth?
For conventional porcelain veneers a very thin layer of the tooth surface is prepared. In some cases prepless veneers, needing little or no preparation, can be used.
Istanbul University Faculty of Dentistry. Spent nine years at the dental clinic of Pendik Regional Hospital; more than 15 years of experience with general anesthesia and sedation.
Dentist’s pageThe information on this page is for general guidance only. The treatment that suits you is decided by your dentist after an examination and any necessary tests; the duration and outcome of treatment vary from person to person.
Treatments often planned together.
CosmeticPrepless veneersContact-lens-thin porcelain veneers bonded with no or minimal tooth preparation.
CosmeticSmile designGums, tooth color, length and alignment are planned together for a natural smile that suits your face.
CosmeticZirconia crownsMetal-free crowns that let light through much like a natural tooth; suitable for front and back teeth.
CosmeticTeeth whiteningDiscoloration of the enamel is lightened under dentist supervision, in the practice or at home.