How long do veneers take to fit?

How long do veneers take to fit?

Most people have heard about veneers, but that’s as far as their knowledge goes.

These teeth-improvement treatments can correct issues such as chips, gaps, discolouration and minor misalignment.

They improve the appearance of your teeth, the result being a smoother and brighter smile. Their natural-looking results are the reasons people choose veneers. Don’t be confused by celebrities with their whiter-than-white teeth from Turkey!

Not all veneers are the same, though. Two main types exist: composite and porcelain. Each has its benefits, and the time it takes to fit them varies.

So, how long does it take to get veneers fitted? And, what should you expect during the process?

Composite veneers: the quick fix

The question how long do veneers take doesn’t have a straightforward answer. If you want fast results (and minimal invasiveness), however, composite veneers are the go-to choice.

Composite veneers can usually be fitted in one visit. Like anything, though, the process starts with a consultation.

During the consultation, your dentist will discuss what you’d like to achieve from veneers. They will also take impressions of your teeth. If needed or desired, a teeth whitening treatment may be done first to ensure the best colour match. Then comes the fun part! Your dentist will hand-sculpt the composite resin directly onto your teeth.

Once they’ve achieved the desired result, they need to be cured. The resin is hardened under a UV light, then they’re polished a smooth and natural finish.

The resin used is made of a mixture of two main components:

• Organic resin matrix, which gives the material its plastic-like mouldable properties.
• Inorganic filler particles like silica, glass or ceramic particles to provide strength, durability and wear resistance.

The procedure is so straightforward that most patients leave the clinic with an improved smile in just a few hours.

Porcelain veneers: quality over time

Porcelain veneers take a little longer compared to composite ones but the results can be worth the wait. Typically, you’d complete the process over 2 to 3 appointments. These are spread over around three weeks.

The first step is still the consultation and detailed impressions of your teeth, like with composite veneers. Your dentist may create a trial smile for you so you can preview how your new teeth will look before the final veneers are made. Unlike with composite veneers, the veneers aren’t made by the dentist who fits them. Instead, your teeth impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians build custom-made porcelain veneers. These will be made to match your desired shape and colour. Once they’re ready, they are carefully fitted and bonded before being polished. The result is a natural-looking finish that lasts.

For people looking for durability alongside aesthetics, porcelain veneers are the best option. They’re stronger than composite veneers and are more stain-resistant. With proper care, they can last many years.

What affects treatment time?

Besides from the type of veneers chosen, there are lots of factors that can otherwise affect the time treatment takes:

• Number of teeth being treated. A single tooth is obviously much quicker to complete compared to a full set of veneers.

• Complexity. Teeth that need reshaping, alignment or extensive colour correction will likely take longer.

• Pre–treatment needs. Whitening, minor dental repairs or gum contouring may be needed before veneers are fitted.

• Dentist experience. An experienced cosmetic dentist will generally work more efficiently without compromising quality.

Knowing these factors can help you plan your treatment and set realistic expectations.

Which option is right for you?

So, which should you choose? It all depends on your goals, timeline and budget.

• Composite veneers are faster, more affordable and less invasive. You can achieve a beautiful smile in just one visit.
• Porcelain veneers take longer and cost more. However, they offer superior durability, a highly natural appearance and long-term results.

Every smile is unique so the best way to decide which type is right for you is to book a consultation. Your dentist can guide you through the options, discuss your expectations and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to you.

Why wait? A confident, natural-looking smile could be just a few visits away.

Related Posts