What Are Dental Veneers? Cost, Procedure & Advantages

Dental veneers have emerged as a popular cosmetic dentistry solution, offering a way to enhance the aesthetics of one's smile. They can help to conceal minor to major imperfections, resulting in a youthful and radiant smile that you want to show off to those around you.

In this article, we will explore what dental veneers are, the different types of veneers available, how we place veneers, the associated costs, and highlight the advantages of this transformative dental treatment.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from materials such as porcelain or composite resin. These shells are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, improving their appearance by altering their colour, shape, size, or length.

Veneers are a versatile solution that can address various dental issues, including discolouration, chipped or broken teeth, uneven spacing, and misalignment.

They are also particularly suited to situations where other treatments would be ineffective. For example, if your teeth are weakened by decay, you might not be a suitable candidate for orthodontics, but veneers can help to give the appearance of straighter teeth while also providing additional strength and support to the tooth structure.

What is the procedure for dental veneers?

Curious if veneers could be right for you? This is what you can expect throughout the consultation and treatment process.

Consultation and examination

The journey to obtaining dental veneers typically begins with a consultation with a cosmetic dentist. During this visit, the dentist will examine the patient's oral health, discuss their goals and expectations, and determine if veneers are a suitable option.

Treatment planning

Once the decision is made to proceed with veneers, the dentist will create a customised treatment plan. This involves considerations such as the number of veneers needed, the desired colour and shape, and the overall aesthetic goals.

Tooth preparation

To accommodate the veneers, a small amount of enamel is usually removed from the front surface of the teeth. This ensures a proper fit and helps the veneers bond securely to the teeth. This will also help to prevent the teeth from feeling too bulky after placement.

Taking impressions

After tooth preparation, the dentist takes impressions of the teeth. These impressions serve as a guide for crafting the custom veneers. These impressions might be created using moulding putty or through digital scans. The dentist may also use a combination of the two to ensure the perfect fit.

Temporary veneers

While the permanent veneers are being fabricated in a dental laboratory, temporary veneers may be placed on the teeth to protect them. These will protect the exposed tooth surface and prevent damage or increased sensitivity.

Don’t worry if your temporary veneer doesn’t feel or look right, you won’t be wearing it for long, and it isn’t an accurate impression of how your final restoration will look.

Bonding

Once the permanent veneers are ready, the dentist will check their fit and colour before bonding them to the teeth using a special adhesive. A curing light is often used to harden the adhesive quickly.

Aftercare

There is minimal downtime after veneer placement and you should be able to go straight back to work. It can take some time to get used to the feeling of the veneer in your mouth and your teeth might feel slightly more sensitive for a few days after treatment.

How much do veneers cost?

The cost of dental veneers can vary based on several factors, including the material used, the number of veneers required, and where you live. The most common veneer unit will cover the “social six”, which is the top front teeth visible when you smile. By addressing these teeth, you can achieve a dramatic smile transformation.

On average, the cost per veneer can range from £500 to £1000. For a cheaper alternative, you could also explore composite veneers. These will typically cost around £150 to £400 per tooth.

It's important for individuals considering veneers to consult with their dentist to get a personalised cost estimate based on their specific needs.

What are the benefits of dental veneers?

Aesthetic improvement

Dental veneers provide a natural and attractive appearance, instantly enhancing the overall appearance of your smile. This can help to boost your confidence and allow you to smile without hiding your teeth.

Stain resistance

Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains, making them an ideal choice for individuals who want to maintain a bright, white smile. If they do stain, we recommend professional cleaning with your dental hygienist. Airflow Stain Removal is one of the most effective methods.

Durability

Veneers are durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear, offering a long-lasting solution to cosmetic dental concerns.

Minimal tooth preparation

While some enamel removal is necessary, the amount is typically minimal compared to other dental procedures such as crowns. If you head overseas for treatment, you will typically have individual crowns rather than a single veneer treatment. This will mean your teeth need to be filed down dramatically, and this is completely unnecessary to achieve an effective transformation.

Versatility

Veneers can address various cosmetic issues, allowing individuals to achieve a comprehensive smile makeover with a single treatment. You can choose to leave in small imperfections and asymmetrical factors to make your smile look even more natural.

Conclusion

Dental veneers offer a transformative solution for those looking to improve the appearance of their smile. While the cost may be a consideration, the aesthetic benefits and long-lasting results often make it a worthwhile investment.

Individuals interested in dental veneers should consult with their dentist to determine if this cosmetic dentistry option is the right fit for their needs and goals. If you’re curious if dental veneers could be right for you, get in touch with our team today. We can help you to explore all of the options available to you.