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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, porcelain veneers or laminates. They are generally used on front teeth where damage is most noticeable.

What Will Dental Veneers 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.
The hygienist will offer instructions for your overall oral health including advice on brushing and flossing. The hygienist may also recommend additional treatments after assessing your oral hygiene.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Normally, veneers will take two visits to the dentist to be fitted. On the first visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth so that the veneers can adhere to them. During this visit, your dentist will also take a mould or a scan of your teeth which is sent to a laboratory, where the veneers are prepared to an exacting standard.
Your second appointment will normally be arranged two to four weeks after your initial appointment. By this time, your veneers will have been prepared by the laboratory so your dentist can cement them in place.

This depends on what type of veneers you decide to go for. There are two main types of veneers; porcelain and composite.
Porcelain is the most popular 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 bonds to your teeth. They are generally less invasive than porcelain veneers and are becoming increasingly more popular.

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, dental veneers do not address any underlying problems with your teeth, they simply cover them. For example, you may not be suitable for veneers if you have an issue with clenching or grinding your teeth. If you are seriously thinking about improving your smile, we recommend an initial consultation with your dentist who can give you a professional opinion on what the best (and most cost-effective) treatment might be. Your priority should always be looking after your natural teeth and ensuring that they remain healthy for the long term. If the issue with your smile is primarily aesthetic, your dentist may agree that veneers are a good option.

Prices vary depending on how much work you need done. You will find a general guide to fees at Dental Care Ireland Cabinteely here.

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.

Having veneers fitted is generally not a painful treatment and is quite a straightforward procedure. Sometimes your dentist will opt to numb your teeth during the fitting.

Are Dental Veneers Safe?

Dental veneers are extremely safe and patients rarely have complications relating to the fitting and wearing of dental veneers. You may experience some sensitivity after getting veneers fitted, however this is completely normal and should return to normal soon after treatment.

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To find out more about dental veneers in Cabinteely, please contact us on (01) 268 9566 or cabinteely@dentalcareireland.ie.