What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin, custom-crafted shells of dental-grade ceramic that bond to the front surfaces of your teeth. At Dentistry at LaSalle in Burlington, ON, we use veneers to reshape smiles quickly and predictably β often in just two visits. Each veneer is colour-matched and contoured to complement your facial features, giving you a natural, radiant result that can last 15 years or longer with proper care.
Because veneers address multiple cosmetic concerns at once, they are one of the most popular treatments we offer to patients across Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and the Halton Region.
What Can Veneers Fix?
Veneers are a versatile solution for a wide range of aesthetic issues, including:
- Chipped or cracked teeth β restore a smooth, even appearance
- Stubborn discolouration β cover stains that professional whitening cannot remove
- Minor gaps β close small spaces without orthodontic treatment
- Uneven or undersized teeth β create symmetry and proportion
- Worn enamel β protect vulnerable tooth structure while improving aesthetics
If you are looking for a single treatment that can transform the colour, shape, and alignment of your smile, porcelain veneers in Burlington may be the right choice.
The Veneer Procedure at Dentistry at LaSalle
Our Burlington dental team follows a precise, patient-centred process to ensure your veneers look and feel exactly right.
- Consultation & smile design β We discuss your goals, examine your oral health, and use digital imaging to preview your new smile.
- Tooth preparation β A thin layer of enamel (typically less than a millimetre) is gently reshaped to create room for the veneer. We offer sedation dentistry for patients who feel anxious about this step.
- Impressions & temporaries β Precise moulds are sent to our ceramics lab while temporary veneers protect your teeth.
- Bonding β Once your custom veneers arrive, we check the fit, shade, and shape, then permanently bond each one with a strong light-cured adhesive.
- Follow-up β A short appointment lets us verify your bite and make any final adjustments.
Low-Prep and No-Prep Veneers
Not every smile makeover requires traditional tooth preparation. Depending on your tooth structure and alignment, our Burlington dentists may recommend low-prep or no-prep veneers. These ultra-thin laminates bond directly to your enamel with little to no removal, making the process more conservative and often reversible. During your consultation, we will assess whether this approach can deliver the cosmetic improvement you are looking for.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups at our Burlington practice, porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 20 years. To maximise their lifespan:
- Brush twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily and attend routine general dentistry visits
- Wear a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth
- Avoid using your teeth as tools (opening packages, biting nails)
Veneers vs. Other Cosmetic Options
Wondering how veneers compare to other treatments available at Dentistry at LaSalle?
| Treatment | Best For | Longevity |
|---|---|---|
| Porcelain veneers | Multiple cosmetic concerns at once | 10β20 years |
| Dental crowns | Severely damaged or weakened teeth | 10β15 years |
| Teeth whitening | Colour improvement only | 6β12 months per session |
| Composite bonding | Minor chips on a budget | 5β7 years |
Our team will help you weigh the benefits of each option during your consultation so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veneers
Do veneers hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort. We use local anaesthesia during preparation, and sedation options are available for nervous patients. Any mild sensitivity after bonding usually resolves within a few days.
Can veneers stain?
High-quality porcelain is highly stain-resistant β more so than natural enamel. However, the bonding cement at the edges can discolour over time if exposed to heavy coffee, tea, or tobacco use.
Are veneers covered by insurance in Ontario?
Veneers are generally considered a cosmetic procedure and are not covered by most dental plans. Our Burlington office staff will review your benefits and discuss payment options to keep treatment accessible.
How many veneers do I need?
That depends on your goals. Some patients choose veneers for just two teeth; others opt for a full smile makeover covering eight or more. We tailor every treatment plan to your unique situation.
Can I still get cavities with veneers?
Veneers cover only the front surface of your teeth. The remaining tooth structure is still susceptible to decay, which is why regular hygiene visits and daily brushing and flossing remain essential.
Book Your Veneers Consultation in Burlington
Ready to explore what porcelain veneers can do for your smile? At Dentistry at LaSalle, we combine modern technology β including laser dentistry and guided biofilm therapy β with a warm, wheelchair-accessible dental suite so every patient feels welcome.
Request an appointment online or call our Burlington office today to schedule your consultation. We proudly serve patients from Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton, and the Halton Region.