If you're considering veneers, one of the key decisions is selecting the right shade. Veneers are available in a range of shades, and the shade you choose affects how the veneers blend with your existing teeth and overall appearance. This guide explains the shade selection process and what to consider when choosing.
There are several veneer types available, including porcelain, composite, and no-prep veneers. Each type has different characteristics.
Porcelain veneers use thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of the teeth. They can be used to address chips, cracks, and tooth colour. Porcelain veneers require preparation — the front surface of the teeth is filed to create space for the veneers to bond. This preparation is irreversible, meaning the teeth will always require veneers or another restoration. Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 20 years depending on care and individual factors.
Composite veneers use a thin layer of resin applied directly to the teeth. The dentist shapes the resin, which is then cured and polished. Composite veneers require light preparation of the tooth surface, but less enamel is removed than with porcelain veneers. Composite veneers are more affordable but typically need replacing every 5 to 7 years.
Get more information on composite veneers.
No-prep veneers are ultra-thin veneers made from porcelain or resin that can be applied with minimal or no tooth preparation. The dentist may lightly etch the tooth surface to help the veneers bond. No-prep veneers are reversible in many cases. Longevity varies — typically 5 to 7 years depending on the material and brand. Your dentist will advise whether no-prep veneers are appropriate for your teeth.
Learn more about our no-prep veneers.
Veneers come in different shades so they can be matched to different natural tooth colours and skin tones. The variety of shades allows veneers to blend with existing teeth. If you are having veneers placed on only some teeth, shade matching is particularly important so the veneered and non-veneered teeth appear consistent.
If you want your veneers to be a lighter shade than your current natural teeth, you may need to whiten the non-veneered teeth first, or have veneers placed on additional teeth, so all visible teeth appear consistent. Your dentist will discuss this at your consultation.
When you select your veneer shade, you'll be given a colour chart showing the available shades. The chart can be held next to your teeth to help you compare options.
We recommend selecting the shade with your dentist, as they can help you consider your facial features and existing tooth colour.
The veneer shade chart is the standard tool for shade selection. Your dentist will hold the shade guide next to your teeth to help identify an appropriate match.
Take time when selecting your veneer shade. Discuss the options with your dentist. Your veneers will be in place for years, so it's worth considering the shade carefully.
If you are only having veneers placed on some teeth, select a shade that is close to your existing tooth colour so the veneered and non-veneered teeth appear consistent. Your dentist can help you assess this.
Before committing to veneers, discuss all treatment options with your dentist. Depending on your situation, other treatments such as whitening or bonding may be more appropriate. Your dentist will assess your teeth and advise which option is clinically suitable.
Whether your veneers discolour over time depends on the type. Composite veneers are more susceptible to staining over time, similar to natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing can help maintain their appearance. Avoiding foods and drinks that stain teeth — such as red wine, tea, coffee, soy sauce, and curry — can also help.
Porcelain veneers are designed to be more stain-resistant than composite. However, regular cleaning is still recommended. If you notice staining or discolouration on porcelain veneers, contact your dentist.
No. Veneer materials (porcelain and composite resin) do not respond to whitening or bleaching treatments. Abrasive whitening toothpastes can damage the veneer surface. If you want lighter teeth, whitening should be done on your natural teeth before veneers are placed, so the veneers can be shade-matched to the lighter colour.
Properly cared-for veneers maintain their appearance for longer. Care for veneers as you would natural teeth, with a few additional measures.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in gentle, circular motions. Avoid sticky or hard foods after the procedure, as these can damage or dislodge new veneers. Do not bite hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails — excessive force can cause veneers to chip or break. Rinse with water after eating to help remove food debris. Floss carefully around your veneers using a gentle motion.
Brush and floss daily. Avoid excessively hard or chewy foods that could damage veneers. Attend regular dental appointments so your dentist can monitor your veneers and oral health. If you grind your teeth at night, discuss a night guard with your dentist to protect both your natural teeth and veneers.
All dental treatments carry risks. Risks of veneer treatment include tooth sensitivity during and after preparation; the irreversible removal of natural enamel (for porcelain and some composite veneers), meaning the teeth will always require veneers or another restoration; the possibility of veneers chipping, cracking, debonding, or failing over time; colour mismatch between veneers and natural teeth, which may become more apparent as natural teeth change shade over time; the potential need for root canal treatment on prepared teeth if the nerve is affected; and the need for eventual replacement, as veneers are not permanent.
Your dentist will discuss all risks specific to your case before treatment begins.
For full information about risks and potential side effects, please visit our treatment risks page: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/
Selecting the right shade for your veneers is an important part of the treatment process. A consultation allows your dentist to assess your teeth, discuss whether veneers are clinically appropriate, help with shade selection using a colour chart, and explain all risks involved. Your dentist will provide a personalised treatment plan with costs before any work begins.
For full information about treatment risks, please visit: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/
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All dental treatment carries risks. The treatments described on this site may not be appropriate for your oral health. A full consultation with an AHPRA-registered dental professional is required before confirming suitability for any procedure. Individual results vary. For information about treatment risks, please visit our treatment risks page.