Objective To explore the effect of ultra-thin porcelain veneer minimally invasive restoration on dental aesthetics in patients with anterior tooth defect. Methods A total of 96 patients with anterior tooth defect admitted to Nanjing Qixia District Hospital from April 2022 to March 2024 were selected as the research subjects. According to the random number table method, they were divided into the control group and the study group, with 48 patients in each group. The control group received conventional all-ceramic veneer restoration, and the study group received ultra-thin porcelain veneer minimally invasive restoration. The aesthetic effect, dental aesthetics, restoration effect and quality of life were compared between the two groups. Results At 6 months after treatment, the facial and intraoral scores of the study group were higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). At 6 months after treatment, the scores of symmetry, position, color and shape in the study group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). The excellent and good restoration rate of the study group (97.92%) was higher than that of the control group (83.33%) (P<0.05). At 6 months after treatment, the scores of material life, psychological function, physical function and social function in the study group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion Ultra-thin porcelain veneer minimally invasive restoration has a favorable effect in the treatment of patients with anterior tooth defect. It can not only effectively improve dental aesthetic performance and patients' quality of life, but also achieve satisfactory aesthetic and functional restoration effects.