Why do I need veneers?
Veneers can be used to improve the shape or colour of teeth that are broken down or significantly discoloured.
Your dentist can discuss with you whether a veneer would be a suitable treatment in your individual case.
What happens when I have veneers?
Veneer cases require careful planning to ensure we achieve a result that will both work well in the long term and to ensure you are happy with the finished appearance of your teeth.
Your dentist will discuss the treatment and options with you, checking that you understand the procedure and will answer any questions you may have.
Often a ‘wax-up’ of the shape of proposed veneers is constructed by our technician on a model of your teeth. This helps to ensure that you will be happy with the proposed shape of your veneers.
We can also arrange a temporary ‘mock up’ of your veneers, so you can see how they will look in your mouth.
Sometimes we will need an up to date X-ray of your tooth/teeth to check that the roots are healthy and the foundations strong before commencing on the process of preparing your tooth/teeth for veneers.
Composite veneers are usually placed at a single visit as they are built up directly onto the tooth and then polished. They do not require impressions to be taken.
Appointment one:
Your dentist will carefully shape your tooth to allow space for the veneer (usually done under local anaesthetic).
At this appointment we will also take impressions of your teeth to send to the dental technician. You will be able to choose a shade for your veneer to match your existing teeth.
You will be provided with a temporary veneer to cover the prepared tooth/teeth.
Appointment two:
You will have your temporary veneer removed and your new one will be fitted.
Your dentist will ensure a good fit and appearance for your new veneer and then bond it in to place using the appropriate material to ensure it lasts well.
We will advise you on how best to care for your veneers over the years to come.
How long will my veneer last?
Veneers typically last 10-15 years.
There are a wide variety of factors that influence this, including:
- the strength of the underlying tooth
- the health of the nerve within the tooth
- the position of the tooth within the mouth
- how much stress and strain a particular veneer is put under
- how well the veneer is looked after
Are there any risks to having veneers?
We will always take steps to carefully plan your treatment to try and achieve the best possible long term outcome, however there can be complications outside our control even with the best possible planning and treatment.
- Colour matching: This can be a challenge, particularly matching a single veneer to your adjacent teeth or existing fillings, crowns or veneers. Occasionally this can mean additional visits are needed if a veneer requires alteration or remaking.
- Nerve damage: In a small percentage of teeth that are prepared for veneers, the nerve can die off at some stage in the future and the tooth require either root canal treatment or extraction. Although this risk is very small it is important to consider this before commencing with treatment.
- Detached veneers: Occasionally veneers can de-bond and come away from the tooth. Often they can be re-bonded back into place but sometimes a new veneer may be required.
- Chips and cracks: The porcelain on veneers can chip or crack over time and this usually results in the need to have the crown replaced.
- Receding gums: Gums can recede over time and this can make the joining line between the veneer and the tooth more visible. This can be a cosmetic problem and may require replacement of the veneer.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost of your veneer(s) will vary depending on the tooth, materials used and the expected time the to perform the treatment.
Your dentist will advise you of this at the time of booking and provide you with a written estimate.
Porcelain veneers start from £583 per tooth
The cost of veneers are included in the Complete Care Plans however patients will be required to pay a contribution to cover technician costs involved in having their veneers made.
For full pricing details, download our latest Price Guide
