Veneers are sometimes called dental laminates. They are thin shells over porcelain that are placed over the front-facing surfaces of the teeth to cover aesthetic flaws. The durable, natural-looking porcelain used can effectively conceal a single damaged tooth or a mouthful of cosmetic imperfections. Veneers are sometimes called dental laminates. They are thin shells over porcelain that are placed over the front-facing surfaces of the teeth to cover aesthetic flaws. The durable, natural-looking porcelain used can effectively conceal a single damaged tooth or a mouthful of cosmetic imperfections. Veneers are sometimes called dental laminates. They are thin shells over porcelain that are placed over the front-facing surfaces of the teeth to cover aesthetic flaws. The durable, natural-looking porcelain used can effectively conceal a single damaged tooth or a mouthful of cosmetic imperfections.