Prefabricated composite veneers: historical perspectives, indications and clinical application

Veneering anterior teeth is a well-established technique, which was brought to Dentistry by Dr Pincus as early as 1937. From the mid-1970s, boosted by the development of composites and adhesive techniques, various concepts emerged including direct composite restorations, prefabricated composite veneers and of course, individualized porcelain indirect veneers. The prefabricated composite veneer option was however soon abandoned due to former technological limitations. Recently, the creation of a new shade guide comprising enamel shells revitalized this "old idea," and in combination with a high pressure and temperature molding process followed by a laser surface vitrification, a novel, improved composite prefabricated system (Venear, Edelweiss Dentistry) was born. This paper provides an overview of the potential indications and clinical protocol of this original veneering technique.