What are a Hollywood smile and veneers?
A veneer is a thin ceramic shell (such as Emax) bonded to the front surface of a tooth. When it is placed on the teeth that show when you smile (on average about 16 teeth, ranging from 12 to 20 upper and lower teeth depending on how many teeth show in your smile), we call it a “Hollywood smile”. The goal is not a uniform white smile for everyone, but a smile that fits your face and looks natural.
Veneers can help with:
- Dark shades that do not respond to whitening.
- Chipped or slightly worn teeth.
- Small gaps between teeth.
- Small or uneven teeth.
- Mild misalignment.
- Loss of the enamel layer after orthodontic treatment.
- Loss or weakness of enamel caused by decay or calcium deficiency.
- An uneven or unbalanced smile line.
Who are veneers right for, and who are they not?
Veneers suit people with good oral health: healthy gums, no active decay and enough enamel for bonding. In some cases a different decision, or preparation first, is needed:
- Decay or gum inflammation: we treat it first.
- Heavy teeth grinding: we may advise a night guard or another option.
- Severe crowding or an unbalanced bite: in some cases orthodontics is needed before veneers.
We tell you honestly if veneers are not right for your case, and suggest the alternative (whitening, cosmetic fillings, orthodontics).
Your treatment, step by step
- Consultation and examination: we examine your teeth and gums, take photos (and X-rays if needed), a 3D scan of your upper and lower teeth and a bite registration, and listen to your expectations.
- Digital smile preview: we design your smile digitally on your real face so you see the result and approve the shape, proportions and shade before we begin.
- A trial smile (mock-up) in the mouth to try the shape: not always, but in most cases.
- Tooth preparation with the least enamel removal possible. It varies from case to case, and even between teeth in the same case, depending on the purpose of the preparation.
- Temporary restorations if needed.
- Final bonding: we bond the veneers with a specialised adhesive and adjust the bite.
- Follow-up after treatment to make sure you are comfortable and the result is stable.
Number of visits and treatment time: a maximum of 3 visits, over 10 days to 2 weeks.
Materials
We work with Emax (lithium disilicate) veneers, and with ultra-thin options (down to 0.2 mm) when needed. We choose the shade with the VITA system together with a trusted laboratory. The choice of material depends on the colour and strength of your teeth and on your expectations.
Teeth whitening
If tooth colour is your only concern, whitening alone may be enough, without veneers. Professional whitening lightens natural teeth and reduces coffee, tea and smoking stains. It does not change the colour of veneers, crowns or fillings, so we plan it before choosing the veneer shade. It may cause temporary sensitivity. We examine you first and then choose the suitable method (in the clinic, at home, or both).
Please note that laser teeth whitening is a temporary solution for tooth colour, not a permanent one like veneers.
Aftercare
- A soft toothbrush and daily flossing: the tooth under a veneer still needs care.
- Avoid biting hard objects (nails, pens, ice).
- A night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Regular check-ups and cleaning every 6 months.
Frequently asked questions
Are a Hollywood smile and veneers the same thing?
Mostly, yes. “Hollywood smile” is the common name for veneers placed on many front teeth to improve the whole smile.
Do veneers hurt?
Tooth preparation and the veneer steps are not painful, but sometimes we use a local anaesthetic when needed to keep the visit comfortable.
Do veneers require filing down the teeth?
It depends on the case. Usually a very thin layer of enamel is removed as needed, and not from every tooth. We discuss it with you before deciding, explaining the reason for the preparation and the amount that is appropriate.
How long do veneers last?
It depends on your care and habits (such as grinding or biting hard objects), and we speak honestly with you about what to expect in your case.
Can veneers be whitened?
No, the colour of veneers does not change with whitening, so we whiten your natural teeth first and then choose the veneer shade to suit them.
Can I eat and drink normally?
Yes.
Are there less invasive alternatives?
Yes, such as whitening, cosmetic fillings or orthodontics. We explain which suits your case and the differences between them.