Dental veneers are custom shells made of tooth-colored materials that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve their color, shape, size or alignment, and can be made of either composite or porcelain; they are used to treat issues like discoloration, crooked teeth, gaps or cracks and improve the aesthetics and function of the smile. The document discusses the different types of veneers, their applications, benefits and risks, as well as the procedures for applying both composite and porcelain veneers.