5 Common Mistakes People Make When Considering Veneers

Porcelain veneers can be a game-changer when it comes to achieving the perfect smile. They offer a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including discoloration, chipped teeth, or minor misalignment. Achieving a flawless smile is an exciting journey, and with a little extra care, you can easily avoid any potential bumps along the way.

Here are five common mistakes people make when considering veneers—and how you can avoid them.

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of a perfect Hollywood smile, but veneers are more than just cosmetic. We often have patients come in with an image of a beautiful smile—where it be Kim Kardashian or Julia Roberts and say, "I want this smile". 

Though we would love to give everyone the smile of their dreams, it is also important to consider multiple factors; the shape of their lips, how many teeth show when they smile, and their own personal facial features and expressions. Though we would all love to have Julia Roberts’ big beautiful smile, she actually shows 12 teeth when she smiles, whereas some of us only  show between 6-10 teeth when smiling. 

It is also important to focus on the functionality of the smile you want. It can be easy to believe that veneers can fix any dental issue, when in fact, underlying problems like decay, gum disease, or bite alignment should be addressed either first or at the same time. Ignoring the health of your teeth can lead to complications later, even with veneers in place, which can be a very costly exercise. 

It is always so tempting to find the lowest price, especially in this economy. Choosing one clinic over another purely based on cost can not only be risky but lead to disappointing outcomes. "Cheap" veneers may not only look less natural but can also be made from lower-quality materials that are prone to breaking or discoloration. In the end, you might end up paying more for repairs or replacements. We often find patients who have completed their veneers elsewhere at a cheaper price (where it be locally or overseas) have often walked away with results that did not meet their expectations. It is so important to choose quality over quantity for the health of your smile for something as significant as porcelain veneers. You only get one set of adult teeth in your lifetime so it’s crucial to not only protect but also take care of your smile. 

Not all veneers are created equal, and a "one-size-fits-all" approach can lead to an unnatural or unwanted appearance. There is so much choice available that it can be difficult to choose the right dentist for you. We highly recommend attending multiple consultations, sifting through the before and after galleries of those clinics, as well as determining what your aesthetic outcomes are before you go in. Taking more leadership and knowing exactly what you want can be more beneficial than walking in and just asking for a better smile. Think about what shapes you like, what colour best suits your skin tone and how you will age with your new smile. Follow your instincts and choose what feels right for you. 

Another common mistake is assuming that veneers are maintenance-free. Although porcelain veneers are built to be quite durable and stain-resistant, they still require regular care, just as your normal teeth would. Poor oral hygiene, failure to attend routine dental check-ups and cleans, or using teeth as tools (e.g., biting nails, opening packages) can not only damage your veneers but your actual teeth over time. It is integral to also wear an aftercare retainer or splint to prevent any damage to your veneers or movement to your teeth overtime, whether you’ve had braces in the past or if you grind your teeth in your sleep. An aftercare retainer or splint is highly recommended. 

Some people rush into getting veneers without exploring other cosmetic options that may be less invasive or more suitable for their needs. For example, treatments like teeth whitening, hybrid veneers or composite edge bonding, orthodontics, or Invisalign could solve some cosmetic issues and be more cost-effective. 

Getting veneers is a significant step toward improving your smile and confidence. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your journey to a beautiful smile is smooth and successful. The key is to prioritize dental health, choose the right dentist, and maintain realistic expectations throughout the process. With proper care and guidance, veneers can offer stunning and long-lasting results.