Types:

1. Porcelain Veneers: These are durable and stain-resistant. They are custom-made in a dental laboratory and often require multiple visits to the dentist.
2. Composite Veneers: These are made from a tooth-colored filling material and can be crafted directly onto the teeth in a single visit.

Uses:

• Cosmetic Improvement: Veneers can enhance the appearance of teeth by altering their color, shape, size, or length.
• Fixing Imperfections: They can cover stains, discoloration, chips, cracks, or uneven teeth.
• Closing Gaps: Veneers can close minor gaps between teeth without the need for orthodontic treatment.

Procedure:

1. Consultation: A dentist assesses your teeth and discusses the desired outcome.
2. Preparation: For porcelain veneers, a thin layer of enamel (about 0.5mm) is removed to create space for the veneer. For composite veneers, minimal tooth alteration may be needed.
3. Impressions: The dentist takes impressions of your teeth to create custom veneers.
4. Temporary Veneers: Temporary veneers might be placed until the permanent ones are ready.
5. Bonding: The permanent veneers are bonded to your teeth using special cement and a curing light.

Care and Maintenance:

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are essential.
• Avoid Staining Agents: Minimize consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine.
• Avoid Bad Habits: Refrain from biting hard objects or using your teeth as tools.

Durability:

• Porcelain veneers typically last longer (10-15 years or more) compared to composite veneers (5-7 years), but both require eventual replacement due to wear or damage.

Cost:

• The cost varies based on factors like the type of veneer, location, dentist's expertise, and the number of veneers needed. Generally, porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite ones.