What is the difference between porcelain overlays and veneers?

Hello Dottie,Porcelain overlays, or onlays, are used to restore decayed or damaged surfaces of back teeth.  They are stronger than a dental filling and are a more conservative approach than a dental crown.  Porcelain veneers are used on front teeth to change their shape, color and size.  I would recommend seeing an experienced cosmetic dentist for a consultation to learn more about these procedures.  The best way to determine if the dentist you select is going to give you the results that he/she claims, is by viewing before and after photos of his/her patients that have undergone similar or the same procedures. Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSt. Louis, MO area (O'Fallon, IL)Real Self 100

Porcelain overlays are most likely referring to restorations  placed on back  teeth.   They are usually called porcelain onlays.  .  Porcelain veneers are usually done on  the front of teeth that show when you smile.  Porcelain veneers do not cover the chewing surfaces of back teeth.Some dentists may  use the term porcelain overlays to describe both both porcelain veneers and porcelain onlays.