Porcelain veneers in Bushey at Caspian Dental Clinic are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain bonded to the front of your teeth. They can change the colour, shape and size of teeth, look natural and resist staining well.
Veneers are a significant decision because a thin layer of enamel has to be removed, and that can’t be undone. That’s why we plan carefully, let you preview the proposed result first, and always talk through more conservative options.
Who are porcelain veneers for?
Veneers may suit you if you have:
- discoloured teeth that haven’t responded to whitening, or a single dark tooth
- chipped, worn or uneven teeth
- small, misshapen or slightly spaced teeth
- older veneers or bonding that need replacing
They’re less suitable if you have active decay or gum disease, too little healthy enamel, or a heavy grinding habit that can’t be managed with a night guard. Veneers aren’t a substitute for straightening: disguising crowded teeth usually means removing more tooth, so clear aligners may be a better first step. Suitability is confirmed at your consultation and examination.
Porcelain or composite veneers?
We offer both. Porcelain veneers are made in a dental laboratory and cost from £1,000 per tooth. Composite veneers, also known as composite bonding, are built directly onto the tooth from £250 per tooth, usually with little or no drilling.
Porcelain keeps its colour and sheen for longer. Composite is quicker, less invasive and easier to repair, but it stains and chips more readily and needs more upkeep. For some people, whitening and bonding achieve enough without porcelain.
Planning your veneers: preview the result first
Good veneers start with careful planning. After your consultation and examination, we may recommend:
- Study models (from £500): accurate models of your teeth, so we can assess your bite and plan proportions.
- A lab-made wax-up (from £650): the proposed shape and length of your new teeth built in wax on the models, so you can preview the result and ask for changes before any tooth is prepared.
We’ll also discuss shade. If you want a brighter smile overall, teeth whitening is usually done first, so the veneers can be matched to your whitened teeth.
Getting porcelain veneers in Bushey, step by step
Consultation and planning
We examine your teeth and gums, discuss what you’d like to change and the alternatives, and plan with study models and a wax-up where needed.
Preparation
Under local anaesthetic, a thin layer of enamel, often a fraction of a millimetre, is removed from the front of each tooth to make room for the porcelain. This is irreversible: those teeth will always need a veneer or another restoration.
Impressions and temporaries
We take impressions for the laboratory and fit temporary veneers to protect your teeth. Temporaries are more fragile than the finished veneers, so you’ll need to take care with them.
Laboratory work
A dental technician makes your veneers to the agreed shape and shade. Laboratory time varies, and we’ll tell you how long to expect.
Fitting
We try the veneers in so you can see them before they’re bonded. Once you’re happy, each one is bonded to the tooth and your bite is checked and adjusted.
Review
We see you again to check your gums, bite and comfort, and to talk about looking after your veneers.
Do veneers hurt?
We make sure you’re numb before preparing your teeth, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Afterwards, your teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold and your gums a little tender for a few days. This usually settles on its own.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With good care, porcelain veneers often last 10–15 years, sometimes longer, but they aren’t permanent. Their lifespan depends on your bite, habits such as grinding or nail-biting, and how well you look after your teeth and gums. Every veneer will eventually need replacing, which is a future cost worth planning for.
Risks and limitations
Like any dental treatment, veneers carry risks you should weigh up before deciding:
- Irreversible: enamel that’s removed doesn’t grow back.
- Sensitivity: usually temporary, but occasionally longer-lasting.
- Chipping or fracture: porcelain is strong but can break under heavy force.
- Debonding: a veneer can occasionally come loose and need re-bonding or replacing.
- Nerve problems: occasionally a prepared tooth becomes inflamed and needs further treatment, such as root canal treatment.
- Gum changes: gums can recede over time and show the edge of a veneer.
“…she took the extra time to explain what the issue was and what she was going to do about it, what risks are involved, and what outcomes were expected”
Amir, Google review
Alternatives to porcelain veneers
- Teeth whitening, if colour is your main concern
- Composite bonding, for chips, small gaps and minor shape changes
- Clear aligners, for crooked or crowded teeth
- Crowns, where a tooth is heavily filled or weakened
- A combination of treatments, planned as a smile makeover
Looking after your veneers
Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth daily and keep up with check-ups and hygiene visits, as healthy gums help veneers look their best. Avoid biting ice, pens or nut shells, and if you grind your teeth, wear a night guard (from £350).
Cost and why Caspian
Porcelain veneers cost from £1,000 per tooth, and planning may include study models from £500 and a wax-up from £650. You’ll have a full breakdown before you commit. You can see all our fees on our prices page.
Your veneers are planned and fitted by Dr Kimia Mirzakhani, our principal dentist, who has more than 25 years’ experience. We’re open on Saturdays and are about 100 yards from Bushey station, an easy trip from Watford.
Porcelain veneers FAQs
How much do veneers cost in Bushey?
At Caspian Dental Clinic, porcelain veneers start from £1,000 per tooth and composite veneers from £250 per tooth. Planning may add study models (from £500) and a wax-up (from £650). Your total is confirmed before treatment.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With good care they often last 10–15 years, and sometimes longer. Grinding, biting hard objects and gum problems can shorten their life, and every veneer will eventually need replacing.
Are veneers bad for your teeth?
Porcelain veneers need a thin layer of enamel removed, which is irreversible, so those teeth will always need covering. With careful planning, good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, veneers can serve you well for many years, but they’re a long-term commitment.
Can veneers be whitened?
No. Porcelain doesn’t change colour with whitening, so if you’d like a brighter smile, whiten your natural teeth first and we’ll match the veneers to the new shade.
Can I see what my veneers will look like first?
Yes. A lab-made wax-up (from £650) shows the proposed shape and length of your new teeth on a model of your mouth, so you can ask for changes before any tooth is prepared.