Porcelain veneers — materials, lifespan, and candidacy
Porcelain veneers for New Zealand patients at Picasso Dental Clinic — e.max and layered ceramics, conservative prep, and NZD pricing.
Porcelain veneers are the default choice for Kiwi patients wanting a durable, natural smile makeover at Picasso Dental Clinic. They sit at the centre of the Portrait Sitting protocol.
What you get
- Strength and aesthetics — colour stability and translucency closer to enamel than composite.
- Custom morphology — length, width, and embrasures tuned to your face, not a one-shape template.
- Documented workflow — photography, shade map, temporaries, final bond with a named ceramist.
Preparation — how conservative?
Honest answer: some enamel removal is usually required for a flush, long-lasting bond. The goal is the minimum compatible with your starting tooth shape and desired change. That is the clinical difference between Portrait Sitting and high-volume tourism mills accused of over-preparation.
If you want the least invasive option, compare composite veneers.
Indicative NZ vs Vietnam economics
| New Zealand (indicative) | Picasso | |
|---|---|---|
| Per tooth | Often NZD 1,500–2,500+ in Auckland/Wellington | Itemised NZD on /pricing/ |
| Full smile (e.g. 10–16 teeth) | Often NZD 20,000–40,000+ | Quote after records — often 50%+ below NZ totals before flights |
Flights and annual leave are real costs — see veneer cost: NZ vs Vietnam for break-even guidance.
Appointment flow (typical 7–10 days)
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Consult, scans, photos, shade mapping |
| 2–3 | Prep, temporaries, lab kick-off |
| Mid | Try-in adjustments if needed |
| Final | Bond, bite check, hygiene instructions |
Combined with implants or crowns? Timeline extends — we map that before you fly.
Care after you return to New Zealand
- Soft brush, non-abrasive paste
- Night guard if you grind
- Annual review with your NZ dentist — follow-up care guide