If you’re wondering what to know about veneers before getting them, this guide covers the essentials. Veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of teeth to change shape, size, or color. They can fix chips, gaps, discoloration, and minor alignment issues. Below you’ll find how veneers work, who makes a good candidate, the types available, the treatment steps, risks and care, cost factors, technology that improves outcomes, and how to prepare for a consult.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are custom-made shells, usually porcelain or composite resin, that cover the front surface of a tooth. They change tooth color, shape, length, and size to create a more even, bright smile. People often choose veneers for stained teeth that won’t respond to whitening, small chips, worn teeth, or to close small gaps.
Are you a good candidate?
Oral health and structure
You need healthy gums and limited decay before veneers. Strong underlying tooth structure and enough enamel are important because some enamel is removed to make room for the veneer. If you have gum disease, active cavities, or severe enamel loss, you may need treatment first.
Cosmetic goals and expectations
Veneers are ideal for color, shape, and small alignment fixes. If your issue is surface stains, professional whitening may be cheaper. For large structural problems, bonding or crowns might work better. For major bite or alignment issues, orthodontics could be the right first step.
Permanent vs reversible considerations
Getting veneers often requires shaving a small amount of enamel, so the process can be irreversible. Some minimal-prep or “no-prep” veneers exist, but they’re not right for everyone. Expect veneers to be a long-term commitment that may need replacement eventually.
Types of veneers: porcelain vs composite
Porcelain veneers resist stains, look most natural, and can last 10–15+ years, but cost more and require lab work. Composite veneers are placed directly by the dentist in one visit, cost less, and are easier to repair, but they stain faster and don’t last as long (5–7 years). Choice depends on budget, goals, and how many teeth need work.
The veneer process — step by step
Consultation and planning
The first visit includes exam, photos, and discussing shape and shade. Many practices offer digital smile design or previews so you can see expected results.
Tooth preparation and impressions
Teeth are gently prepared by removing a thin layer of enamel. Impressions or intraoral scans are taken for lab-made porcelain veneers. Composite veneers may be built directly on the tooth.
Bonding and final adjustments
Veneers are tried on, adjusted for fit and color, then bonded with dental cement. The dentist will polish and check your bite.
Recovery and follow-up
You may have short-term sensitivity. Avoid hard foods for a few days. Follow-up visits ensure fit and health; report any discomfort or looseness right away.
Risks, care, and lifespan
Risks include chipping, sensitivity, and dark margins if gums recede. Porcelain commonly lasts a decade or more with good care; composite less so. Brush twice daily, floss, avoid biting hard objects, and wear a nightguard if you grind teeth.
Cost factors and payment options
Price depends on material, number of teeth, lab work, and dentist experience. Many offices offer financing, payment plans, or in-house options to spread cost. Dental insurance may not cover cosmetic veneers, so ask about alternatives.
Technology and comfort options that improve results
Digital smile design, intraoral cameras, facial scanning, and 3D planning improve fit and predictability. Sedation options like oral meds, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation help anxious patients stay comfortable.
About South County Complete Dental Care and Dr. James Fetsch
South County Complete Dental Care in St. Louis provides advanced cosmetic and general care using digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, facial scanning, and digital smile design. Dr. James Fetsch, DMD, FAGD, brings extensive training and a patient-first approach to veneer treatment, focusing on comfort and predictable esthetic results.
Next steps: preparing for your veneer consultation
Bring a list of goals, photos of smiles you like, and your dental history. Ask about materials, expected lifespan, costs, and preview options like digital mockups. To schedule a consult or request a virtual smile preview, contact the office and discuss your timeline and comfort preferences.
