What margin design is recommended for laminate veneers?

A long chamfer margin design is recommended for laminate veneers primarily because it provides a balance between esthetics and retention. This design allows for a gradual transition between the tooth structure and the veneer, which is critical in ensuring that the veneer adapts well to the tooth while minimizing the risk of breaking or chipping along the margins.

The long chamfer creates a broader surface area for bonding, which enhances the adhesion of the veneer to the tooth. It also helps in achieving a more natural appearance, as the marginal transition is less noticeable compared to sharper margins. Furthermore, it facilitates easier finishing and polishing of the veneer edges, leading to better overall esthetic results.

In contrast, other margin designs like a heavy chamfer or beveled margin may either compromise the strength of the enamel or fail to provide an adequate bonding surface. A flat margin could lead to higher visibility of the margin and potentially more issues with retention. Therefore, the long chamfer is the most appropriate choice in terms of both functional and cosmetic outcomes for laminate veneers.