What Are Dental Veneers? A dental veneer is a wafer-thin shell of tooth-colored material that fits over the outside of a tooth. Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option because they are less intrusive than dental crowns and provide quicker results than braces or aligners. They can brighten and correct discolored teeth, straighten a smile, close gaps, fix misshapen teeth, and repair fractures and chips. Veneers are also durable and stain-resistant, especially porcelain