Cosmetic Dentistry - Dental Veneers

A dental veneer is simply a thin covering for the outside of the teeth designed to enhance appearance by masking colour, shape or positional defects. This cosmetic dentistry technique is performed by “gluing” the covering, usually porcelain, ceramic or composite onto the existing tooth surface.

This procedure is typically done over two visits to the cosmetic dentist and as such offers a relatively quick and simple route to an improved smile. It is often chosen as the treatment of choice by acting professionals and other celebrities exposed to media attention. You may have heard the phrase “Hollywood Smile” so now you know how it’s done!

The veneering procedure involves removing a tiny amount of the tooth surface to ensure that the new tooth covering does not feel intrusive or uncomfortable. An “impression” is then taken to make sure that the veneers match as closely as possible to the rest of the teeth – these first two steps are done on your first visit to the dentist. Typically on your second visit, the teeth are polished and cleaned and the veneers applied. Your “smile makeover” is complete!

As with all cosmetic dental treatments it is important to visit a trained cosmetic dentist to find out all the key facts before you proceed. However, here are a few of the main considerations:

Advantages of Dental Veneers

  • Veneering can be done relatively quickly
  • Veneers can last up to 15 years but a typical life span is 5 – 10 years
  • Veneers can certainly enhance your teeth and smile for improved confidence – your own “Hollywood Smile”!
  • Veneering removes less of the original tooth material than “crowning”
  • Veneers can protect older teeth from damage as well as enhancing appearance

Disadvantages of Dental Veneers

  • Veneers may need to be replaced after a number of years
  • Some tooth material will have to be removed to accommodate the new tooth covering
  • The veneer is only as strong as the underlying tooth material
  • Heavy chewing or biting can damage a veneer surface which may only be discovered after the veneers have been fitted. If you are a heavy biter or natural tooth grinder, you may need to consider crowns as an alternative
  • As with all cosmetic dentistry techniques, veneering can be quite expensive – up to £2000 per tooth – so do your research carefully!

Please read on to discover key facts about the other cosmetic dentistry techniques and options.... Dental Crowns

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