What it is
A veneer is a thin shell — usually ceramic or composite resin — bonded to the front surface of a tooth. It changes what you see: colour, shape, length, minor spacing.
Veneers are a cosmetic procedure. They’re for teeth that are structurally healthy but look a certain way that you’d like to change.
The two types
Composite veneers are applied directly in the clinic in one visit, shaped and polished on the tooth. Less expensive. Reversible. May need replacement after a few years.
Porcelain veneers are made in a lab and bonded on in a second visit. More durable, more natural-looking, longer-lasting. Two visits, higher cost.
We’ll recommend which makes sense for your situation.
What to expect
Composite (one sitting): The tooth surface is lightly etched, the composite is applied layer by layer, shaped, and polished. No lab. Done in one appointment.
Porcelain (two sittings): First visit: we prepare the tooth (removing a thin layer of enamel), take impressions, and place a temporary veneer. Second visit: the permanent veneer is bonded in place.
Does it hurt?
Composite: usually no anaesthetic needed. You feel the shaping instruments but it’s not painful.
Porcelain: the preparation (enamel removal) may be done under local anaesthetic. Once the veneer is in place, there’s typically no discomfort.
How long it takes
Composite: one sitting, 45–60 minutes per tooth. Porcelain: two sittings, about a week apart.
Cost
Starting from ₹5,000 per tooth — see full pricing.
Composite is on the lower end. Porcelain is higher. For multiple teeth, we’ll give a package quote.
Veneers are an investment in appearance. They’re not medically necessary. We’ll never push them — if you’re happy with your teeth, no veneer is needed.
When veneers make sense
- A chipped or slightly broken front tooth
- Permanent staining that whitening hasn’t fixed (tetracycline staining, fluorosis)
- Minor gaps between teeth
- Teeth that are slightly uneven in length or shape
- You’ve had a filling on a front tooth and the colour no longer matches
Veneers are not the answer for severely misaligned teeth (braces work better), significant structural damage (a crown works better), or active gum disease (treat the gum first).
After the visit
- Avoid biting directly into very hard food with veneered teeth — apples, hard candy, ice
- Brush normally — no abrasive whitening toothpaste
- Composite veneers may stain over time with coffee and tea, especially at the edges
Come back if a veneer chips or feels loose. They can be repaired.