Veneers: what you need to know and how to choose the right ones

How do veneers work?

Dental veneers, a cosmetic treatment that is beloved by Hollywood stars, politicians, and people from all walks of life alike, is one of the few procedures which is absolutely guaranteed to give you a stunning smile. In its core, a dental prosthesis, the veneer is a thin layer of polymer, ceramic, or another material, firmly attached to the front of your teeth.

Ceramic veneers

Also known as porcelain veneers, this is the most widely used option. Resistant to staining and scratching, unless you munch on bolts ;), ceramic veneers are reliable and are behind many of the enchanting smiles we see on the screen these days.

It is, however, important for you to know the process of obtaining a shining bright smile with veneers. After your initial consultations and treatment planning stage, when you will have the opportunity to select the exact shade of white, the application stage arrives. For a veneer to be attached to your teeth, an equivalent thickness needs to first be shaved from the enamel of your actual teeth. This process ensures that the veneers appear natural when attached and don’t thicken your smile. This process, however, also means that having ceramic veneers is irreversible – you cannot later decide that you do not like them and go back to your natural teeth.

It is also important to mention that veneers need regular maintenance, regular hygiene sessions and a replacement set of veneers after some time (usually 10 years). If you opt for ceramic veneers, make sure you discuss these aspects with your dentist, and you feel comfortable to follow the maintenance advice. 

Composite veneers

Unlike ceramic (porcelain) veneers, composite ones do not require shaving down your natural teeth. To apply composite veneers, the dentist will only gently brush your natural teeth to allow the bonding agent to attach steadily. Then the composite veneers are created layer by layer over your natural teeth and are by default much thinner than ceramic veneers. The beauty of transforming your smile with composite is that you can decide against this at any time of your life and return to your natural teeth.

An additional benefit of having composite veneers is that the dental specialist performing the procedure can create a mock-up for you before the actual application begins. The mock-up, created in real size, can be applied over your teeth, and you’ll be able to ensure that you’re 100% happy with the result before the procedure even begins. Surely, there’s an additional cost to having a mock-up done, but nothing else in dentistry comes as close to allowing you full control over the process as this option.

What you need to know about composite veneers is that they require annual polish and maintenance to ensure the composite is intact. Like ceramic veneers, they will require a replacement in 7 to 10 years.

When are veneers the right choice?

Veneers are not merely a vanity treatment. Although often used for aesthetic purposes, they can be the ultimate solution for people suffering from severe tooth discolouration, high tooth sensitivity, or confidence issues.

If you’re unhappy with your smile or experience discomfort, or both, do consider the option for veneers. Our highly experienced specialists can advise you on the options you have and help you choose the most suitable alternative for you.

Which is the best choice?

As with almost everything else in life, there’s more than one solution that fits all patients, needs, and requirements. Depending on your lifestyle, for example, you may decide that ceramic veneers are the most suitable alternative or opt for composite bonding instead. And whilst we do our best to inform you of everything you need to know, making a decision based on an article is never advisable. Book a consultation with our specialists and talk to them about the options for your treatment and any dental health concern that may steer you in a specific direction.