Want the feeling of smile-confidence? Whether you have crooked teeth, gaps, cracks, or crowded teeth, you may have wondered about the best way to get these fixed. Cosmetic veneers could be the answer.
But deciding to get cosmetic veneers is a big decision. Not only are they permanent, but they’re expensive and have the potential to go wrong if they’re not completed by a professional.
What Are Veneers?
Cosmetic veneers are a dental procedure that uses porcelain or resin composite materials that are placed over your tooth. They are used to improve the look of your teeth, with every tooth veneer custom-made and created individually.
Are They Right for You?
Before making the decision, there is a lot to think about. Veneers are extremely customisable, so you can make them work for you. The following information will help you work out whether they’re right for you.
The Cost
Veneers are known for being one of the most expensive dental treatments. They are usually charged per tooth, so the more teeth you need replacing, the heftier the price.
The price will depend on the dentist you go to and the type you choose, but they can start anywhere near £150 up to £1000 per tooth.
The Type of Veneers
There are three main types of veneers, porcelain, ceramic, and composite. Read on to find out the difference:
- Porcelain – the most popular type is porcelain veneers are resistant to staining and can last for up to 20 years.
- Ceramic – cheaper than porcelain, ceramic stains easier than porcelain.
- Composite – the more affordable type of veneer, composite it’s as durable or long-lasting as porcelain. They only last around 1-5 years compared to porcelain.
If you’re wanting to save for treatment, saving the extra amount for porcelain will provide a better finish and last longer when looked after correctly.
You should speak with your dentist to discuss the best treatment for you, taking your finances and end goal into account.
The Process
When your teeth go through the process, your tooth will be filed down to allow the veneer to be placed on top of your natural tooth. This makes it irreversible, which is what makes them such a commitment.
This part of the process must be done by a professional. If not, issues can easily take place. If too much of the tooth is drilled off, it can cause dental nerve damage. Root canals, fillings etc might be needed if a veneer isn’t fitted correctly.
So make sure to do enough research into the dentist you choose before fully committing.
They’re Permanent
One of the most important aspects to think about when getting veneers is the fact that they are permanent.
Once your teeth have been filed down, they will need to be covered with a veneer for the rest of your life. With porcelain types they can last between 10 to 20 years if you look after them correctly, so you will need to get them replaced in the future.
Things to Avoid
Since they’re so expensive, you want to avoid causing any damage to your veneers. This includes avoiding certain foods that can potentially cause stains or damage your teeth:
- Dark liquids such as black tea, black coffee, red wine
- Ketchup and fizzy drinks are also known for causing damage
- Very hard or crunchy foods can cause damage
- Berries can leave stains
- Tobacco
Alcohol is also known to affect the bonding material used in veneers, so you may need to reduce your alcohol consumption once you get the treatment. Take things into consideration before deciding to get veneers.
Ready To Commit?
As discussed, veneers are a commitment. They’ll be with you for the rest of your life, but they can make all the difference in your confidence.
The best way to start the process is to speak to a dentist and talk about their recommendations. You’ll then understand how many teeth will need veneers, so you have a rough estimate of how much you need to save.
Once you’ve saved up enough, you can start the process!
