Porcelain veneers, also known as dental veneers and tooth veneers, are thin shells of porcelain applied to the front of the teeth to hide imperfections. Veneers can also be made of composite resin reinforced with quartz. Veneers are most commonly used on the upper front teeth, but can also be used on the lower and back teeth. Veneers are usually placed on the teeth in sets - this allows for a more even-looking smile. Individual teeth can be veneered; it just may be more difficult to match the natural color of the teeth.

2. Candidates for Porcelain Veneers

Candidates for porcelain veneers should have strong, healthy teeth. People who fit this description and have the following imperfections may want to consider veneers:

• Stained or discolored teeth
• Irregularly shaped teeth
• Slightly misaligned teeth
• Small gaps between the teeth
• Chipped or worn teeth

It is important to remember that while porcelain veneers may look and feel like natural teeth, they are not perfect. For example, veneers can vary from one another in color. Veneers are also susceptible to chipping and breaking over time.