At Advanced Dental Artistry, we’ve helped thousands of people in Perth achieve their ideal smile with custom-crafted porcelain veneers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the porcelain veneers process, answering common questions along the way.
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic material that are bonded to the front of your teeth to enhance their appearance. They can improve the colour, shape, size, and alignment of your teeth, creating a more balanced and symmetrical smile. Unlike composite veneers, which are made from resin and applied directly to the teeth, porcelain veneers are handcrafted for each patient using high-quality ceramic materials. This allows for a more natural look and greater durability. Porcelain veneers can address a range of concerns, including:
- Discolouration – Stubborn stains that don’t respond to whitening treatments
- Chipped or worn-down teeth – Strengthening and restoring structure
- Gaps and misalignment – Creating a straighter, more uniform smile
- Irregularly shaped teeth – Enhancing symmetry and proportion
Step 1: Your initial consultation
The journey to a beautiful, natural-looking smile begins with an initial consultation. During this appointment, we take the time to understand your goals, assess your oral health, and discuss whether veneers are the right choice for you. We’ll examine your teeth and gums, take digital scans, and discuss:
- What you’d like to change about your smile
- The number of veneers you may need
- The best shade and shape for your facial features
- Alternative treatments if veneers aren’t the best option for your needs
You’ll have the opportunity to ask our team any questions, ensuring you feel comfortable and fully informed before making a decision.
Step 2: Designing your new smile
One of the most exciting parts of the porcelain veneers process is the design phase. Using advanced digital technology, we create a precise model of your future smile, allowing you to preview your results before committing to treatment.
What’s included in the design phase?
- Digital smile preview – A virtual mock-up of your new smile
- Temporary smile – A temporary version of your veneers so you can see how they look and feel
- Customised recommendations – Based on your facial structure, gum line, and personal preferences
At Advanced Dental Artistry, we believe in collaboration and personalisation—you’ll have control over the shape, size, and shade of your veneers to ensure they look just right for you.
Step 3: Preparing your teeth
To ensure a seamless and secure fit, a small amount of enamel is gently reshaped from the front surface of your teeth. This allows the veneers to bond properly and sit flush against your natural teeth. Many of our patients ask: ‘Will my teeth be damaged?’ The answer is no—we take a conservative approach, preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. The amount removed is minimal (usually less than a millimetre), and because veneers add strength to the tooth, they can actually enhance durability and function. Does it hurt? We take every step to ensure your comfort, using numbing options to minimise sensitivity. If you experience dental anxiety, we also offer sedation options to help you feel relaxed throughout the process.
Step 4: Creating your veneers
Once your teeth are prepared, we take digital impressions and send them to our expert ceramists, who handcraft your porcelain veneers with precision and care. Each veneer is designed to mimic the natural characteristics of enamel, including subtle translucency and variations in colour. This ensures they blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. While your custom veneers are being made, you’ll wear temporary veneers to protect your teeth and give you an idea of how your final smile will look. Your temporary veneers do require special care techniques, and we have written a blog previously on the foods to avoid while wearing your temporary veneers. Luckily, this is only for a short period of time, so you can get back to eating your favourite foods in no time!
Step 5: Placing your veneers
Once your custom porcelain veneers are ready, you’ll return for the final placement appointment. During this visit:
- We check the fit, colour, and shape of each veneer
- Any necessary adjustments are made for a comfortable, natural-looking result
- The veneers are bonded securely to your teeth with a strong dental adhesive
This step is done with great care and precision, ensuring your veneers feel as natural as they look.
Step 6: Caring for your veneers
One of the most common questions we hear is: ‘How long do porcelain veneers last?’ With proper care, your veneers can last 10–20 years before needing replacement. To maintain your new smile:
- Brush and floss daily – Just like natural teeth, veneers need regular cleaning
- Attend regular check-ups – Professional cleanings help prolong their lifespan
- Avoid using teeth as tools – Biting hard objects (like pens or ice) can cause damage
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth – Protecting your veneers while you sleep can prevent premature wear
Unlike natural enamel, porcelain is resistant to staining, meaning your smile will stay bright for years to come.
Common questions about porcelain veneers
How many veneers should I get?
The number of veneers depends on your goals and smile structure. Some patients only need one or two to correct specific issues, while others opt for 6–10 veneers for a complete transformation.
Are veneers better than Invisalign?
Veneers and Invisalign serve different purposes:
- Invisalign straightens teeth but doesn’t change their colour, shape, or size
- Veneers provide an instant transformation, addressing multiple concerns at once
If you’re looking for both straighter and whiter teeth, a combination of treatments may be the best approach.
Are porcelain veneers expensive?
Porcelain veneers are an investment in your smile. At Advanced Dental Artistry, our veneers are $2.35K per tooth, covering digital design, trial smiles, and expert craftsmanship. We understand that cost can be a factor, which is why we offer finance options, including:
- Payment plans
- Superannuation access
- Personal lending options
Our team is here to guide you through your options so you can make an informed decision. To learn more, have a read-through of our pricing page.
Is the porcelain veneers process right for you?
Porcelain veneers may help with your dental aesthetics and function, but they’re not for everyone. The best way to find out if they’re right for you is to book a consultation. At Advanced Dental Artistry, we’re passionate about creating beautiful, natural-looking smiles that stand the test of time. If you’d like to explore what’s possible for your smile, we invite you to give us a call to book a consultation—either in person at our West Perth clinic or discuss your goals with our friendly team!
