Everything You Need to Know About Dental Veneers

14 May 2025

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Veneers

If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your smile – whether it’s a chipped tooth, a slight gap, or stains that simply won’t go away – veneers might be exactly what you need. At our Gillingham dental practice, we’ve helped lots of patients to enhance their smile using veneers, with results that still look natural and feel like ‘you.’

In this guide, we’ll explain what veneers are, how the process works, and help you figure out whether they’re something worth considering.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are ultra-thin layers of material that are placed over the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. They’re ideal for addressing common concerns like:

• Deep stains that won’t respond to whitening
• Chips or cracks
• Gaps between your teeth
• Slightly crooked or uneven teeth

Why Consider Veneers?

A 2019 UK survey revealed that 43% of respondents were looking for improvements to their teeth through whitening, veneers, or straightening treatments such as Invisalign. This growing interest underscores the appeal of veneers as an effective solution for achieving a confident smile.

At Toothcare Dental, our veneers are personalised to you. The goal is to enhance what’s already there – not to give you a one-size-fits-all Hollywood smile.

Composite vs Porcelain Veneers

We offer two types of veneers: composite and porcelain.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution – it comes down to your goals, your lifestyle, and what feels right. We’ll talk you through both options during your appointment.

Below we highlight the main difference between the two types.

What’s the Procedure Like?

Getting veneers is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s how the process works:

1. Consultation – We take the time to understand what you’re aiming for and check that veneers are the right option for you.
2. Preparation – We may need to remove a very small layer of enamel to create room for the veneers. For composite, minimal or no preparation may be needed.
3. Impressions or Digital Scans – These help us create veneers that match your teeth precisely.
4. Fitting – We bond your veneers in place, tweak them for comfort and appearance, and give everything a final polish.

In some cases – particularly with composite veneers – you can walk out with your new smile the same day.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

• Composite veneers tend to last between 5 and 7 years.
• Porcelain veneers often last 10 to 15 years or longer with good care.

As always, the better you look after them, the longer they’ll last.

Caring for Your Veneers

Looking after your veneers isn’t complicated. A few good habits will make all the difference:

• Brush and floss regularly
• Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or pen lids
• Cut back on staining food and drinks (particularly if you choose composite)
• Visit us for regular check-ups so we can keep an eye on things

They’re strong and durable, but they still benefit from a little TLC.

Why Choose Toothcare Dental for Veneers?

We know this isn’t just about your teeth – it’s about how you feel when you smile. At our Medway practice, we combine clinical experience with a personal, patient-first approach. You’ll never feel rushed or under pressure to purchase any treatment. We’re here to listen and guide.

You can also rest assured knowing your veneers are made with trusted materials, precision-fit, and supported with advice that helps you maintain your results for years to come.

Common Questions About Veneers

Do veneers hurt?

No, the procedure is usually pain-free. Some people feel a bit of sensitivity during prep or shortly after fitting, but it’s usually mild and short-lived.

Will veneers look fake?

Not if they’re done well. We design veneers to match your face and smile – subtle enhancements that look like the best version of your natural teeth.

Can I whiten veneers later?

No – veneers can’t be whitened with bleach. If you want a brighter overall look, we may suggest whitening your natural teeth before placing veneers.

Are veneers suitable for everyone?

Most people are candidates, but we’ll check your oral health first. Gum issues or untreated decay would need to be addressed prior to starting treatment.

What if one of my veneers comes off?

Not a problem. Although it is rare, it can happen. We can usually bond it back or replace it very quickly.

How much do veneers cost?

Our veneers cost £645.00 per unit.

Let’s Talk About Your Smile

If you’re curious about veneers – whether for a small touch-up or a full smile transformation – we’d love to chat. You can visit our Veneers Treatment Page or our broader Cosmetic Dentistry page for a list of all of our cosmetic treatments.Or just get in touch with our team at Toothcare Dental. We’re always happy to answer questions and help you feel more confident about your next step.