Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed on the front surface of one or more teeth. They’re often used to improve the appearance of your teeth, especially if they are stained, crooked, or misshapen. Veneers are usually made from porcelain or composite resin, depending on the individual case.
Many people consider veneers to achieve a more balanced, natural-looking smile. While this cosmetic procedure can offer aesthetic benefits, it’s also important to understand the risks of veneers.
These may include slight sensitivity, gum tissue inflammation, or changes to the natural tooth structure. In some cases, veneers may need to be replaced over time.
With support from an experienced dentist, personalised care, and good oral hygiene practices, many of these concerns can be reduced. Understanding what’s involved can help you decide if veneers are the right option for your dental health and goals.
- Dental veneers improve the appearance of stained, crooked, or discoloured teeth using custom-made thin shells placed over the front surface of teeth.
- There are two main types of veneers: porcelain and composite resin, each with different application steps and durability.
- Porcelain veneers often require enamel removal and are long-lasting but may cause sensitivity or need replacement if damaged.
- Composite veneers are less invasive and quicker to apply but may stain or chip more easily over time.
- Veneers can cause temporary effects like tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or mild discomfort that usually improves within days.
- Long-term risks include veneer chipping, bonding failure, and changes to the tooth structure over time.
- Not everyone is suitable for veneers. Factors like gum disease, bruxism, or thin enamel can increase risks.
- Alternatives include teeth whitening, bonding, and orthodontic treatment for those seeking less invasive options.
- Choosing an experienced dentist and following aftercare help reduce risks and support long-term results.
Types of Dental Veneers
There are two main types of veneers used in cosmetic dentistry: porcelain veneers and composite resin veneers. Both improve the appearance of your teeth, but they differ in material, procedure, and durability. These differences also influence the risks of veneers.
Porcelain Veneers
- Composition
Porcelain veneers are made from strong, ceramic material. Each veneer is custom-made in a dental laboratory to match the patient’s natural tooth enamel. - Application process
The process usually involves removing a thin layer of tooth enamel. This allows room for the veneer and helps with long-term bonding.
After preparation, an impression is taken and sent to the lab. While waiting, patients may wear temporary veneers to protect the tooth surface.
Once the final veneers are ready, they are bonded to the entire tooth surface using high-strength dental cement.
- Durability
Porcelain veneers are generally long-lasting and stain-resistant. With proper care, they may last for many years before needing replacement. - Risk profile
This dental procedure is considered irreversible due to enamel removal. It may lead to slight tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold food.
Over time, there’s a risk of veneer failure from excessive force, chewing hard foods, or teeth grinding. If a veneer breaks or detaches, it can expose the underlying natural tooth and increase the risk of further complications.
Composite Resin Veneers
- Composition:
Composite veneers are made from tooth-coloured composite resin, a material also used in dental fillings. It is sculpted directly onto the real tooth surface. - Application process:
The procedure is usually completed in a single appointment. Little to no enamel removal is needed, preserving a more natural tooth structure.
The dentist layers and shapes the resin and then hardens it using a special curing light. Final adjustments are made for the fit and appearance of teeth. - Durability:
Composite resin veneers are less durable than porcelain. They may stain more easily and wear down sooner, especially without good oral hygiene habits. - Risk profile:
Because minimal tooth preparation is needed, there is usually less risk of sensitivity or lasting change to the underlying teeth.
However, the resin is more prone to chips, discolouration, and veneer failure, particularly if exposed to abrasive toothpaste, hard foods, or poor brushing. They may require regular check-ups or periodic adjustments to maintain function and appearance.
How Preparation Affects Risk
The way veneers are applied affects their potential complications. Porcelain veneers require more preparation, including enamel removal, which may raise the risk of tooth sensitivity.
Composite veneers are less invasive, but they may need more maintenance over time due to material wear or staining.
Each veneer type has its advantages and possible risks. Neither is better for every patient. A thorough assessment by a dental practitioner is essential.
They can evaluate your oral health concerns, discuss treatment options, and help you choose a veneer type that suits your individual needs.
Common Temporary Side Effects
After a dental veneer procedure, it’s normal to experience short-term side effects as your mouth adjusts. These effects are usually mild and manageable.
- Slight tooth sensitivity:
You may feel sensitivity when eating hot or cold food, especially right after placement. This typically improves within a few days. - Gum line irritation:
Some people notice gum tissue irritation near newly placed veneers, especially with traditional veneers. This can be improved with gentle brushing and proper care for oral hygiene. - Adjustment discomfort:
Mild jaw pain or pressure may occur as your bite adjusts. It may also affect adjacent teeth, but this usually improves in a short time. - Colour awareness:
The exact tooth shade of your veneers may seem slightly different at first. This often becomes less noticeable as you get used to the veneers’ appearance. - Minor swelling or tenderness:
Some patients experience tender gums or a slight feeling of swelling. This usually eases with regular brushing and careful cleaning.
These effects are part of the normal veneer treatment process. If you experience discomfort that worsens or lasts beyond a few weeks, speak with your dentist or dental professional.
Potential Long-term Risks of Veneers
Dental veneers are a common option to improve the appearance of stained, discoloured, crooked, or misshapen teeth. While dental veneers are generally considered safe, some issues can appear over time, especially if the veneers are not planned or maintained well.
A 2024 study by Alghazzawi found that more than 90% of veneers lasted over 10 years when placed with proper care. Even so, it is important to understand the possible risks so you can manage your long-term oral health confidently.
- Damage to the tooth under the veneer
Placing a veneer often involves removing a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of the tooth. This helps the veneer fit naturally and stay in place. Once enamel is removed, it cannot grow back. Some people may notice more sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially in the first few weeks after treatment.
If too much enamel is taken off, the tooth may weaken. This increases the chance of tooth damage or decay, especially if a veneer later becomes loose or falls off. - Veneers may chip, crack, or come off.
Veneers are strong, but they can still be damaged. Over time, they may crack, chip, or come loose. This is more likely if you grind your teeth, bite hard objects, or eat hard foods regularly. Damage is also more likely in thin veneers or if the bonding between the veneer and tooth is not strong enough.
If a veneer comes off, it usually needs to be replaced. The tooth underneath may feel sensitive or appear uneven until a new veneer is placed. - Veneers may not work well with other dental work.
If you already have fillings, crowns, or bonding, veneers may not fit as well over or near those areas. This can affect your bite, make cleaning harder, or put a strain on adjacent teeth.
Veneers may also limit or interfere with future treatments, such as braces, gum reshaping, or root canals. Your dentist will assess these factors during the planning stage to help reduce the chance of issues later on. - Veneers often need to be replaced over time.
Veneers are not designed to last forever. On average, they last about 10 to 15 years. You may need a new veneer if the current one chips, becomes stained, comes loose, or no longer fits as your teeth or gums change.
Each time a veneer is replaced, your dentist may need to reshape part of the tooth. Over time, this can affect the strength of the natural tooth structure.
Understanding these potential complications can help you care for your veneers properly and support the long-term health of your natural teeth.
Who May Not Be Suitable Candidates for Veneers?
Dental veneers can improve the look of stained, discoloured, or crooked teeth, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. Some dental conditions, habits, or oral health factors may increase the risk of dental veneer complications.
Your dentist will assess your dental concerns and recommend a treatment plan that supports your overall oral health and long-term outcome.
You may not be a good candidate for veneers if you have:
- Gum disease or decay that requires attention
Placing veneers over existing dental problems can increase the risk of discomfort, veneer failure, or further tooth damage. Your dentist will focus on improving the health of your teeth and gums first. - Teeth with extensive cracks or large fractures
Teeth that are severely weakened may not provide enough support for veneers. In these cases, other dental procedures may be more appropriate. Options such as tooth bonding or crowns may offer more protection for broken teeth. - Severe misalignment or wide gaps between teeth
While veneers can close gaps and improve minor alignment issues, they may not be suitable for teeth with significant shifting or crowding. Orthodontic care may be recommended first to help protect the surrounding teeth and improve overall bite alignment. - Very thin enamel or worn-down teeth
Veneers need a strong enamel surface to stay secure. If enamel is limited due to dental erosion or brushing damage, bonding may be less stable. Your dentist may explore no-prep veneers or alternatives that are minimally invasive. - Bruxism or strong clenching habits
These habits increase stress on veneers and may lead to cracks, chips, or debonding. In some cases, a night guard or another type of restorative care may be recommended to protect veneers and surrounding teeth. - Irregular dental care or poor hygiene habits
Veneers last longer when supported by good oral hygiene, including flossing, regular cleanings, and consistent visits to your dentist. Without proper care, issues like minor inflammation, decay, or staining around the veneer edges can arise. - Unclear expectations about results or limitations
Veneers can significantly enhance your smile, but they do not address all dental imperfections.
Understanding the risks, care requirements, and possible additional costs is important for long-term satisfaction.
How to Minimise Risks When Getting Veneers
Although dental veneers are generally safe, some risks and complications may occur. These include tooth decay, damaged teeth, or veneers becoming loose. Taking the following steps can reduce these risks and help support long-term results.
- Choose an experienced and qualified dental professional.
A dental practitioner with experience in dental veneer treatment can assess your dental concerns thoroughly and tailor your care to reduce the chance of veneer failure or bonding issues. - Have a full dental check-up before starting treatment.
A comprehensive oral health assessment can reveal tooth decay, gum problems, or other oral health concerns that may affect the success of veneers. Addressing these conditions first can help prevent adverse effects later. - Ask about the types of veneers and how they may affect your teeth.
There are different types of veneers, such as thin shells, no-prep veneers, and long-term bonded veneers. Some involve more enamel removal than others. Your dentist will recommend a type that provides an improved appearance while protecting the front surface of your teeth. - Share your medical history and any previous dental work.
Let your dentist know about any medical conditions, existing restorations, or past procedures. This helps them make necessary adjustments and reduce the risk of complications. - Ask clear, specific questions during your consultation.
Useful questions may include:- What aftercare is required for veneers?
- What are the signs of veneer failure or wear?
- Will this affect the surface of my teeth in the future?
- What options are available if issues arise later?
These questions can help you feel better prepared and more aware of the risks involved. - Follow your aftercare instructions closely.
Good aftercare supports the health of your veneers and natural teeth. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, floss daily, and avoid abrasive products. This helps keep your veneers properly cared for and reduces the chance of damage. - Avoid habits that place stress on your veneers.
Avoid using your teeth to open packaging, biting your nails, or chewing on hard objects. These habits increase the chance of cracks, chips, and veneer separation. If you clench or grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard. - Attend regular dental visits and hygiene appointments.
Regular visits help your dentist check the fit, condition, and edges of your veneers. Routine cleanings also help maintain a bright smile and monitor your overall oral health over time.
Alternatives to Dental Veneers
Although dental veneers can significantly improve the appearance of stained, discoloured teeth or uneven edges, they are not your only option.
Several less invasive cosmetic treatments may help you achieve a healthy smile without the irreversible nature of veneers.
Your dentist will assess your goals, oral health, and lifestyle. They will recommend an option that suits your individual needs.
- Teeth Whitening
- Procedure:
Teeth whitening uses a professional-grade whitening gel to remove stains and lighten the teeth. This is done in a chair or at home using custom trays. - Who it suits:
Whitening is suitable for people with healthy teeth and enamel. It improves the appearance of stained or discoloured teeth without changing the tooth structure. - Relative risks:
Whitening is generally safe. Some people may experience mild gum irritation or short-term sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. - Longevity:
Results vary depending on diet, hygiene, and lifestyle. Repeat treatments may be needed to maintain a bright smile.
- Procedure:
- Dental Bonding (Tooth Bonding)
- Procedure:
A tooth-coloured resin is applied directly to the surface of the tooth. It is shaped and hardened using a curing light during the same visit. - Who it suits:
Bonding suits those with small chips, gaps, or worn edges. It is often seen as an affordable option for improving minor dental imperfections. - Relative risks:
Bonding is less durable than long-term veneers. It may stain or chip over time if exposed to pressure, hard objects, or acidic foods. - Longevity:
When properly cared for, bonding with composite resin can last up to 10 years. Results vary depending on oral hygiene, diet, and habits such as clenching or grinding.
- Procedure:
- Orthodontic Treatment (Braces or Clear Aligners)
- Procedure:
Braces or clear aligners move the teeth gradually over time. The goal is to improve alignment, spacing, and bite function. - Who it suits:
Orthodontics is ideal for people with crooked teeth, bite issues, or large gaps. It treats the root cause rather than covering the problem. - Relative risks:
Risks are minimal. Patients need to keep up with hygiene to reduce the risk of tooth decay or gum irritation during treatment. - Longevity:
Results can be long-lasting when retainers are worn as advised. This option helps preserve your set of natural, healthy teeth.
- Procedure:
- No-Prep Veneers or Removable Veneers
- Procedure:
These options use thin shells placed over the teeth without reshaping them. They require little or no change to the front surface of teeth. - Who it suits:
This may suit people looking for short-term or reversible cosmetic enhancement. It is useful when only mild changes are needed. - Relative risks:
These options may carry a higher risk of fit issues or veneer failure. This can be more likely when teeth have hidden risks like decay or alignment issues. - Longevity:
With special care, these can last several years. However, they are generally less durable than long-term bonded veneers.
- Procedure:
There are many reasons people choose to enhance their smile. Your dentist will consider factors such as dental concerns, enamel thickness, and budget. Exploring all options helps reduce potential problems and supports a more confident, informed choice.
Final Thoughts
While veneers can be a helpful option for enhancing the appearance of stained, discoloured, or uneven teeth, they are not without risks. The risks of veneers may include tooth sensitivity, bonding failure, or damage to the underlying tooth if they are not planned or maintained properly.
Many of these complications can be reduced with careful planning and regular follow-up care. Choosing a qualified dentist, selecting the right veneer type, and maintaining good oral hygiene are important steps in lowering the chance of problems.
Every smile is different. That’s why a personalised consultation is essential to assess whether veneers—or another approach—may suit your dental needs and preferences.
If you’re considering veneers, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at South Perth Dental Surgery. Our team will listen to your concerns, examine your oral health, and provide guidance tailored to your situation. This allows you to explore your options with clarity and confidence.
