7 Things to Consider Before Getting Veneers
When it comes to ways on how to improve your smile and the appearance of your teeth, one of the most popular options has become getting veneers.
They’re known for transforming chipped, stained, or uneven teeth into bright, uniform, and natural-looking smiles — sounds amazing right? But just like any dental procedure, it’s important to know what you’re getting into before making a decision.
At Whitehorse Dental, we want to help you make informed choices about your oral health. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the key considerations you should think about just before you get the veneers, including how the process works, and what to expect from your results.
Are you ready? Let’s dive right in.
What Are Veneers and How Do They Work?
Veneers are thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin that are custom-fitted and bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They’re often used to improve the look of teeth that are:
- Discoloured and won’t respond to whitening
- Chipped or worn down
- Unevenly spaced or slightly misaligned
- Irregularly shaped
These shells are carefully shaped to match your natural teeth, giving your smile a refreshed and uniform appearance.
Our dentists will assess if you’re a suitable candidate by checking your oral health and discussing your cosmetic goals. While veneers can do wonders, they aren’t for everyone—especially if you have untreated gum disease, weakened enamel, or chronic teeth grinding.
Understand the Process of Getting Veneers
The process of getting veneers is relatively straightforward but involves multiple steps. It’s not a same-day procedure, and knowing what to expect helps you plan accordingly.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Initial Consultation – Your dentist examines your teeth, takes X-rays or scans, and discusses your goals.
- Preparation – A small amount of enamel is removed from the front of your teeth to create space for the veneer.
- Impressions or Digital Scans – These are sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers are made.
- Bonding – Once your veneers are ready, they’re placed and adjusted for fit and appearance. Once approved, they’re bonded permanently to your teeth.
This process usually takes 2 to 3 visits across a few weeks. Temporary veneers may be used in the meantime, especially if you’ve had enamel removed.
Choosing the Right Type: Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers
When considering veneers, you’ll need to choose between two main types:
Porcelain Veneers
These are durable, stain-resistant, and mimic the light-reflecting qualities of natural teeth. They typically last 10–15 years with proper care. However, they require more enamel removal and are usually more expensive.
Composite Resin Veneers
These are more affordable and can sometimes be applied in one visit. While they look good, they’re more prone to staining and usually last 4–8 years. They’re a great option for minor cosmetic fixes or if you’re unsure about committing to porcelain.
Generally, the best veneers for you will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and oral health.
Veneers Are Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution
It’s important to understand that veneers are a cosmetic treatment, not a cure-all.
If you have severe bite issues, extensive decay, or gum disease, these need to be addressed first. Veneers are best for people with healthy gums and enough enamel to support the bonding process.
Also, veneers are custom-made—so what works for one patient may not be the best fit for another. We take the time to design your veneers to suit your face shape, skin tone, and natural tooth structure to ensure the most natural-looking outcome.
The Commitment: Veneers Are (Usually) Permanent
One major thing to consider before getting veneers is that the procedure is often irreversible, especially with porcelain veneers. Once enamel is removed, it doesn’t grow back. That means you’ll always need a veneer—or some other form of restoration—on that tooth going forward.
While veneers are long-lasting, they are not lifetime solutions. You will eventually need replacements, and good oral care is essential to prolong their lifespan.
So ask yourself: Are you ready for a long-term commitment?
Caring for Your Veneers After Treatment
Even the best veneers need proper care to stay beautiful. Luckily, taking care of veneers is similar to caring for natural teeth.
Here are a few key tips:
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Floss daily to keep gums healthy.
- Avoid biting hard objects like pens, fingernails, or ice.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Avoiding things like red wine, coffee, and smoking will also help reduce staining—especially for composite veneers.
The Costs Involved
Let’s talk about the money side. Veneers are generally considered a cosmetic treatment, so they’re not usually covered by Medicare or most health insurance plans.
The total price depends on the number of veneers you need, the materials used, and the expertise of your dentist.
At Whitehorse Dental, we prioritise transparency. During your consultation, we’ll provide a clear breakdown of your treatment plan and the costs involved so you can make a decision that suits your needs and budget.
The Bottomline?
It’s important to remember that veneers may not be for everyone. The process of getting veneers involves commitment, care, and planning. That’s why we recommend speaking with a qualified dental professional who can help you weigh your options and make an informed choice.
Do You Think Veneers Are For You?
Getting veneers is a big decision, but it can also be a rewarding one!
Whether you’re fixing a chipped tooth or reinventing your entire smile, veneers offer a natural-looking, long-lasting solution that can improve your confidence and quality of life.
We’ll help you decide if veneers are right for you, and if so, design a personalised plan that suits your needs, lifestyle, and smile goals.
Book a consultation today and let’s create a smile that feels just right for you!
