Veneers and Composite Bonding
What are veneers?
Veneers are a thin shell that is applied to your teeth to conceal issues with the shape, size, or colour of your teeth. They are typically made of porcelain or composite material. We collaborate with some of the best dental laboratories in Ireland to create custom porcelain veneers for you. Our cosmetic dentists are experts at creating natural-looking composite veneers right here in the clinic.
Who are veneers suitable for?
Veneers are suitable to repair a single tooth or a whole mouthful of teeth. They can be applied to anyone who has:
What types of veneers are available?
Dental veneers can be made from a variety of materials, each with a unique appearance, lifespan, and biocompatibility. The two most common types of veneers are:
Porcelain veneers
A long-lasting and natural-looking solution. Porcelain veneers are handcrafted in a dental laboratory by highly skilled specialist technicians to look exactly like natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are typically installed in two or three appointments and require only minor tooth preparation in some cases. Non-preparation veneers can be used in some cases. The amount of preparation required varies by case, and we strive to keep preparation to a bare minimum.
Composite veneers (composite bonding)
Dental bonding is a one-stop treatment performed in the dental surgery. It involves bonding a composite resin or filling to the surface of your teeth masking any damaged enamel, which is then sculpted to the correct shape and size. Composite veneers have a very natural appearance and are a great option to close small gaps and make minor changes to the shape of teeth.
Porcelain veneers vs composite veneers
Porcelain veneers are typically used to make larger changes to the shape of teeth and are better at concealing discoloration from the underlying tooth. In most cases, the dentist will need to prepare or remove a small portion of the enamel to fit the veneer. They require two to three visits and the use of a dental laboratory. They are more expensive, but because they are made of porcelain, they do not discolor over time, are much stronger, have fewer fractures, and last much longer with little intervention or maintenance.
In general, composite veneers are very effective in closing gaps between teeth, filling cavities, and making minor cosmetic changes to the shape of teeth. They usually do not require much preparation of the underlying tooth. They are less expensive than porcelain veneers but require more maintenance because they stain from tea, coffee, red wine, and other beverages, and in general require more maintenance and do not last compared to porcelain veneers.
In some cases, neither dental bonding nor porcelain veneers are appropriate treatments when patients are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth. Sometimes, when teeth are in the wrong position, and veneers and dental bonding do not provide a satisfactory result, orthodontic treatment is often the best way to treat these cases.
At Harcourt Street, your dentist will show you a mock-up of your future smile, and you will be able to decide which treatment best meets your needs.
How long do veneers last?
Out of the many cosmetic dentistry options available (including, crowns, bridges, implants and dentures) veneers are a highly durable way to improve your smile. The longevity of your veneers is determined by your dental care routine, lifestyle, and the type of veneer you select.
Porcelain veneers can last between 15-20 years if properly cared for. Composite veneers are expected to last four to eight years.
Aftercare of veneers
We will provide you with all of the necessary care instructions after your veneers have been fitted, but you are always welcome to contact us if you require additional information or experience any problems after treatment.
We recommend regular check-ups (even if you don’t have veneers), as this allows us to monitor the condition of your veneers and ensure you are properly caring for them. Prioritizing good communication with your dentist will help your veneers last as long as possible while also keeping your natural teeth and gums healthy.
As a general instruction, you should treat your dental veneers the same way you would your natural teeth: brush twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and floss twice daily. Composite dental veneers can also discolor and stain (so avoid coffee, tobacco and red wine). Your dental veneers will need to be replaced at some point; by following a good oral hygiene regimen, you can prolong the need for replacing.
Cost of veneers
Each patient is individual with individual needs. Our specialists strive to provide you with a long-lasting smile that is as unique as you are. As a result, the cost of veneers varies from person to person. Porcelain veneers begin at €800 per veneer and composite veneers begin at €250 per veneer.
