Porcelain veneers and inlays

Veneers are porcelain facings which cover the front of a tooth, or teeth, in a similar way to false finger nails. They can correct dark, discoloured or unsightly teeth and can create a fantastic new smile if planned in multiple units. They are made in a similar way to a crown but the smallest amount of shaping is required, so that as much tooth structure as possible can retained. See tooth alignment section to find out more about pre-veneer alignment.

Inlays are constructed in a similar way to veneers, but are used on back teeth instead of large fillings, where superior strength and appearance are sought. In the past silver amalgam fillings or gold inlays were the only way to fill back teeth, but porcelain inlays are a much more aesthetic option, and are bonded to the tooth so that less drilling is required for a really strong restoration.