Snap-on veneers (also known as clip-on veneers or removable veneers) are cosmetic dental appliances that fit over your existing natural teeth to hide imperfections.
Think of them like a "costume" or a "mask" for your smile. They look like a very thin, tooth-colored mouthguard that slides over your real teeth to make them look straighter, whiter, and more uniform.
Key Characteristics
- Non-Invasive: They do not require surgery, drilling, or injections. You usually do not need to have your natural enamel filed down (unlike traditional permanent veneers).
- Removable: You can take them out at any time (e.g., to sleep or clean).
- Retention: They stay in place using friction and the undercut of your natural teeth. They "hug" your teeth to stay on.
- Material: Made from crystallized acetyl resin or co-polyester—flexible but durable plastic.
- Cost-efficient: Much cheaper than real veneers.
Who Are They For?
They are designed for people who have strong, healthy teeth but dislike how they look. They hide:
- Stains or yellowing.
- Chipped or worn teeth.
- Small gaps between teeth.
- One or two missing teeth (as long as there are healthy teeth on either side to hold the appliance).
Critical Note: They are NOT for people who have had all their teeth extracted. If you have immediate dentures or are edentulous (toothless), snap-on veneers will not work because there is nothing for them to clip onto.