Dental veneers: all your questions answered
January 22nd, 2020
Dental veneers are an efficient and cost-effective way of covering up blemishes on your teeth to leave you with a bright, white smile
During our daily lives, we all endure wear and tear on our teeth, from staining due to food and drink to more serious issues such as chipped or broken teeth. Dental veneers continue to grow in popularity with patients of all ages as a quick fix for these kinds of issues.
What are dental veneers?
Essentially, they are super-thin, tooth-coloured ‘shells’ or strips that are fitted on top of existing teeth to cover up any blemishes that have been sustained. They are also known as composite veneers or porcelain veneers or laminates. They are generally used on front teeth where damage is most noticeable.
What will they achieve?
The purpose of veneers is to improve the appearance of your teeth. Many people feel self-conscious if they have stains, marks or chips on their front teeth. Getting veneers will deal with this and restore your natural smile. This gives patients renewed self-confidence about their appearance.
What are veneers made of?
Porcelain remains the main material used in veneers. The thin strips of porcelain can be fitted on top of your upper and lower teeth using a bonding agent. They generally result in a matching set of front teeth.
Composite veneers are made from a resin which the dentist attaches to your teeth. They are generally less invasive as a treatment than porcelain ones and are becoming more and more popular.
Are veneers the best option for me?
Dental veneers are generally regarded as an aesthetic fix for discoloured or chipped teeth. If you just want to ‘repair’ your smile, they are ideal as they can be done quickly and are a very effective solution.
However, if you have deeper issues, dental crowns, bridges or implants may be a more permanent solution. Dentures are also an option, depending on the extent of the problem. You can discuss this with your dentist who will be able to advise you on the best course of action for you.
How long does it take to get veneers?
Getting them fitted usually requires just two visits to your dentist. On the first one, the dentist gets your teeth ready for the fitting as well as taking a mould of your teeth. These are then sent our laboratory where your unique veneers are created.
When you return for the second appointment, your dentist will be able to ‘cement’ your veneers in place.
How much do dental veneers cost?
Prices vary depending on how much work you need done. You will find a general guide to fees at Dental Care Ireland practices here.
How long do they last?
This will depend on various factors, including age, diet and general usage. Normally, porcelain veneers can be expected to last from 10 to 15 years or longer. Composite veneers generally last anywhere from five to eight years. Your dentist will advise you which ones will suit you best.
Veneers can sometimes get chipped or damaged through use. If this happens, contact your dentist who will assess the issue and recommend replacing them if necessary.
Is it painful to get veneers fitted?
In general, no. Getting veneers made and fitted is a quite straightforward procedure. Sometimes a dentist will opt to numb your teeth during the fitting.
How safe are they?
They are extremely safe and patients rarely if ever have complications relating to the fitting and wearing of dental veneers.
What happens if I have problems after treatment?
You may experience some sensitivity after getting veneers fitted. If you do have any problems, contact your dentist immediately and they will bring you back in for a check-up.
Where in Dublin can I get dental veneers?
Our practices in Dublin 18 (Veneers Cabinteely), Dublin 16 (Veneers Knocklyon) and north Dublin (Veneers Swords ) all fit veneers. Our partner practice in Dublin 2/Dublin 4 also provides this service (Veneers Northumberland Dental Care).
Where can I get dental veneers near me?
The following Dental Care Ireland practices offer dental veneer services:
and
Our partner practice in Dublin 4, Northumberland Dental Care, also does them: Veneers Northumberland Dental Care
Find out more about getting veneers fitted at Dental Care Ireland. Also find a list of all our practices nationwide, with full contact details.
