What are dental veneers?
A smile is one of the first things we notice about a person – it plays a key role in every personal and professional contact. A healthy, straight, and radiant smile appears sympathetic, gives a person confidence, and increases their natural charisma. Conversely, even minor aesthetic imperfections – such as stains on teeth, slight irregularities, gaps, or chipped edges – can lead to insecurity and affect how a person smiles and acts in public.
One of the most effective and at the same time gentlest solutions to remove these imperfections is dental veneers. These thin ceramic or composite shells applied to the front surfaces of the teeth allow you to completely transform your smile in just a few visits – aesthetically, naturally, and long-term. At SmileTime in Prague, we help patients obtain a confident smile they will be proud of. Veneers are a modern solution that combines beauty, functionality, and comfort – all without the need for extensive procedures.
What are dental veneers and how do they work?
Dental veneers are thin shells made of ceramic or composite material that are permanently bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They serve to aesthetically improve the smile – adjusting the color, shape, size, and overall symmetry of the teeth. A veneer works as a fine “cover” for the tooth – masking its surface and creating a new, perfectly aesthetic appearance. Thanks to precise processing, veneers not only look great but also hold well for many years.
Dental veneers vs. whitening and crowns
Unlike teeth whitening, which only affects the shade of the enamel, veneers can also mask permanent pigmentation, shape irregularities, or cracks. Compared to dental crowns, the procedure with veneers is gentler because the tooth does not need to be significantly ground down – most of its natural structure is preserved. Veneers represent an ideal solution for those who want to keep their own teeth.
When are veneers suitable?
- ✅ Irregularities and gaps between teeth: Veneers can cover slight irregularities and elegantly fill gaps (diastema) without the need for orthodontic treatment.
- ✅ Permanent tooth discoloration: If teeth whitening is not enough (staining caused by medication or injuries), veneers cover the color completely.
- ✅ Damaged or worn teeth: Teeth with chips or cracks that do not require a white composite filling can be aesthetically restored with a veneer.
Types of veneers: Ceramic vs. Composite
🦷 Advantages of ceramic veneers (porcelain):
- Excellent aesthetics – they perfectly mimic the natural appearance, shine, and translucency.
- High resistance to stains – they do not discolor from coffee, wine, or smoking.
- Long lifespan – with proper care, they last 10–15 years or more.
- Require slight tooth grinding for perfect adhesion.
🦷 Advantages of composite veneers:
- Faster application – often finished in a single visit (similar to a white filling).
- Lower price – suitable as a more affordable solution.
- Easy repairs in case of damage.
- Lifespan usually 5–7 years, requiring more frequent maintenance.
The application process at SmileTime clinic
- Consultation and Design: Using a digital smile design, we will show you the result even before the procedure.
- Tooth Preparation: Light and completely painless grinding of a thin layer of enamel.
- Placement: Firm bonding of the finished veneers from the laboratory. The process usually takes 2–3 visits.
How to care for veneers?
Care for veneers just like your own teeth. The key is regular dental hygiene (2× a year) and cleaning interdental spaces. Beware of very hard foods (nuts, ice) that could damage the veneer.
Who are veneers not suitable for?
Veneers are not suitable for untreated bite problems, severe teeth grinding (bruxism), or teeth affected by tooth decay and gum inflammation. First, it is necessary to treat cavities or perform root canal treatment. If a tooth is missing entirely, a dental implant is a better solution.
We are contracted with the VZP insurance company. Give us a call, and we will be happy to assist you with an individual plan for your new smile. We can provide an estimated price and available dates.