When it comes to transforming your smile, veneers remain one of the most popular treatments in the UK, and among the different options available, laminate veneers are growing in popularity.
In this blog, we will discover what laminate veneers are, how they are fitted, the benefits, and the difference between laminate veneers and normal veneers.
What are Laminate Veneers?
Laminate veneers are an ultra-thin veneer that uses a custom-made shell that is bonded to the surface of your teeth. They are designed to improve the overall appearance of your smile by correcting colour, shape, or covering gappy, chipped, or crooked teeth!
Laminate Veneers are made of a material called porcelain, a material that’s less prone to staining and highly durable, with all the original aesthetics of natural teeth. Unlike some other veneer options, laminate veneers are considered “no-prep veneers”, a treatment/procedure that requires no shaving or drilling on your natural teeth, so if you have dental anxiety or phobias, laminate veneers could be the option for you!
How are Laminate Veneers fitted?
The Laminate veneer procedure is a straightforward and minimally invasive one. Here, we will break down the fitting process into 4 steps:
1: Consultation
Firstly, you will need to have a consultation, where a dentist will assess your teeth, talk through your goals, and create a bespoke dental treatment plan.
2: Tooth prep
As Laminate veneers are minimally invasive, this part is making sure your teeth are ready and suitable for this type of veneer. Although it is uncommon, your teeth could need some prep done, but this is normally a very small shave that causes almost no discomfort and pain.
3: Impressions and Bite
After the initial consultation and tooth prep, a custom-made impression of your teeth is taken. This is to make sure the veneers will be a perfect fit, and your bite will be comfortable.
4: Bonding/Fitting
Once everything is ready and your impressions and bite are perfect, it’s time for bonding! This is done by the laminate veneer being carefully bonded to your teeth, with strong dental adhesive, giving you a transformed smile almost instantly!
The benefits of Laminate Veneers
Laminate Veneers can have a range of benefits, the main benefits include:
- Minimally Invasive – requires none or very little tooth prep.
- Natural look – the porcelain material used for laminate veneers mimics the look of natural teeth.
- Durability – the porcelain used in laminate veneers makes it resistant to staining and highly durable.
- Quick procedure – The fitting procedure is relatively fast, with the treatment taking only a few appointments.
- Bespoke – Each one of our treatments is bespoke to you and your teeth; this isn’t a one-size-fits-all, it’s a design specifically for your smile.
What is the difference between laminate and normal veneers?
Laminate veneers and normal dental veneers are both used to improve the appearance and function of your smile, but there are some important differences to note:
| Laminate Veneers | Normal Veneers | |
| Thickness | Thin – usually 0.2 – 0.5mm | Thicker – 0.5 – 0.7mm |
| Preparation | Minimal or no removal of your enamel or tooth | Requires tooth shaving or enamel removal |
| Durability | Strong | Strong |
Although there are some differences, it all depends on the work you require and need. Typically, Laminate veneers are used to improve your smile and hide those little imperfections, like chips, gaps, and wonky teeth, whilst keeping a natural-looking smile.
Whereas traditional normal veneers can be used for bigger problems, like gaps, missing teeth, or a complete redo of your smile/teeth. Depending on where you get this treatment done, or the material used, this could give you a beaming white smile with your teeth having a bulky look.
Why Bespoke Smile?
We have successfully created a cosmetic dental reputation that is relied on and trusted locally and internationally, and we continue to show our commitment to providing the best level of cosmetic dentistry.
Our strong following on social media is also a testament to the level of care and skill we demonstrate through our work.
Whether we are providing implants, veneers, or Invisalign, we offer 5-star service to all of our customers.
Talk to our friendly staff on 01628 488 538
If you would like to book an appointment, click here.