A real change that looks natural
A veneer doesn't shout. It doesn't draw attention. It doesn't make people think "what perfect teeth". What it does, when it's well made, is simply let people see you smile and that's it. Without noticing anything else.
That's what we aim for at Clínica Dental Sancho when we plan a veneer treatment: that the result is yours, not off-the-shelf. We have spent more than 35 years doing this work in Barcelona and experience has taught us that less is always more.
Book your first consultation — we'll see what we can do for your smile
Imagine you could change the colour, shape or size of a tooth without practically touching it. That, in essence, is what a veneer does: an ultra-thin sheet that bonds to the surface of the tooth and transforms its appearance very effectively and with minimal impact on the natural tooth.
Veneers can be porcelain —the most durable and the best at imitating the look of a natural tooth— or composite —applied directly in the clinic and more affordable, though less durable. The choice depends on the case, the budget and the patient's expectations.
This is one of the questions we get asked most. Here we explain the real differences so you can decide with the information:
We assess the state of your teeth, listen to what you want to improve and explain what's possible and what isn't. In some cases we do a digital simulation so you can see the approximate result before starting. The quote, in writing, before making any decision.
For porcelain veneers, a very thin layer of enamel needs to be reduced —usually less than a millimetre— so the veneer sits level with the rest. With composite the tooth isn't touched. In both cases the measurements are taken or the direct application is done.
Porcelain veneers are made in the dental laboratory based on the measurements taken. In the meantime, if necessary, we fit temporary veneers. This process usually takes between one and two weeks.
We try the veneers, check the colour, shape and bite, and bond them definitively. This is the visit where you see the result for the first time. We make the necessary adjustments until everything is perfect.
In the case of porcelain veneers, the tooth preparation is done with local anaesthesia, so you don't feel pain during the procedure. With composite ones there's no intervention, so no pain either. After placement there may be some sensitivity for a few days, which goes away on its own.
Composite ones, yes: they can be removed without a problem. Porcelain ones, not completely: as they require minimal tooth preparation, that process isn't reversible. That's why it's important we explain it well before starting and that the decision is yours with all the information.
Well-maintained porcelain ones last between 15 and 20 years. Composite ones, between 5 and 8 years. In both cases, the lifespan depends on habits: bruxism, biting hard objects or consuming staining substances (coffee, wine, tobacco) affect durability.
When they're well planned and well made, no. The goal is always for them to match the shade, shape and proportions of the rest of your teeth. A veneer that draws attention is a poorly made veneer.
The price depends on the number of veneers, the material chosen and the complexity of the case. We give you the detailed quote at the first visit, in writing. No commitment until you decide. Contact us for an assessment.
Veneers don't change who you are. They change how you feel when you smile. And that, for many people, changes more things than they expected.
If you're curious about what could be done with your smile, the first consultation is the best place to start. No commitment, no pressure, with all the information on the table.
