Enquire about Veneers
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin coverings placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. The process typically involves consulting with a dentist to assess the patient’s needs, followed by careful preparation of the teeth to ensure a proper fit. Once the custom veneers are created to match the desired shape and colour, they are securely bonded to the teeth. The procedure is usually done in stages, starting with an initial consultation and preparation, followed by the fitting and bonding of the veneers. This cosmetic dental treatment can be a solution for various aesthetic concerns, giving the teeth a more uniform and enhanced look. It requires minimal recovery time and is considered a minimally invasive procedure.
What veneers are used for
Veneers are primarily used to improve the appearance of teeth and address various cosmetic dental concerns. They can be an effective solution for covering stained or discoloured teeth that don’t respond well to whitening treatments.
Veneers are also used to correct chipped, cracked, or worn-down teeth, providing a smoother and more uniform surface. For individuals with gaps between teeth, veneers can close these spaces, creating a more aligned smile.
In cases of slightly misaligned or irregularly shaped teeth, veneers can help achieve a more uniform and symmetrical appearance without the need for braces or other orthodontic treatments. They can also be used to correct teeth that are slightly too small or have an uneven surface.
Veneers offer a versatile way to enhance the aesthetics of a smile, making them a popular choice for those seeking a quick and minimally invasive cosmetic dental solution.
Benefits of veneers
Veneers provide many benefits to your oral health, not just appearance. One important benefit is that they protect the natural tooth underneath by covering damaged or weak teeth, veneers can help protect them from further wear or minor damage.
For people with worn-down enamel, veneers can help reduce sensitivity to hot, cold, or acidic foods. They can also restore a tooth’s ability to function, especially if it’s been chipped or cracked, making chewing easier.
Veneers are strong and resistant to stains, which may reduce the need for frequent whitening treatments. They can also fix small gaps or uneven teeth, leading to a more balanced bite and helping to prevent uneven wear.
In the long run, veneers can protect and support teeth, helping to keep oral health in good condition while offering the added benefit of improving the look of your smile. To read more about veneers and if they would be the right option for you, click here.
Types of veneers
There are different types of veneers, each offering its own benefits. The two most common types are porcelain and composite veneers, which vary in material, look, and how long they last.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most popular choice because they look natural and are strong. They are very durable, stain-resistant, and provide a long-lasting result. These veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth and reflect light similarly to natural enamel, providing a highly natural appearance.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are made from resin and applied directly to the teeth. They are less expensive than porcelain veneers and can be completed in just one visit. While they may not last as long as porcelain, composite veneers are still a good option for people who want a quick, affordable fix for small dental problems.
Both types of veneers offer benefits, depending on your needs, budget, and desired outcome. Your dentist can help you decide which option is best for you.
Getting veneers at Fulham Road Dental
Getting veneers is a straightforward and comfortable process at Fulham Road Dental. During your initial consultation, our experienced dentists will look at your oral health and talk through your goals to see if veneers are the right option for you. We will take impressions of your teeth to create custom veneers that fit perfectly and match your natural smile.
Once your veneers are ready, your dentist carefully prepares your teeth to ensure a proper fit by removing a small amount of enamel. The veneers are then bonded securely to your teeth, enhancing both their appearance and functionality.
Throughout the process, we prioritise your comfort and aim for a seamless experience. At Fulham Road Dental, we ensure you leave with a brighter, more confident smile.
Before Veneers
After Veneers
Veeners FAQ's
How long do veneers last?
Veneers typically last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the material used and the level of maintenance. Porcelain veneers are generally more durable and resistant to staining compared to composite veneers, which may need to be replaced sooner. The longevity of veneers also depends on factors such as your oral hygiene, lifestyle habits (e.g., avoiding teeth grinding or biting hard objects), and regular dental check-ups.
Proper care, including brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding excessive consumption of staining foods or drinks, can help extend the life of your veneers. With good care, many patients enjoy their veneers for over a decade before needing replacements or adjustments.
Are veneers painful to get?
The process of getting veneers is typically pain-free, with minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Before the procedure, your dentist will numb the area with local anaesthesia to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the treatment. During the preparation stage, a small amount of enamel may be removed from the surface of your teeth, but this is typically done with minimal discomfort.
Most patients report only mild sensitivity after the procedure, which usually subsides within a few days. If any discomfort occurs, it can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. The final bonding of the veneers is generally painless, and you should not experience any ongoing pain once the procedure is complete. Overall, getting veneers is a relatively quick and comfortable experience for most patients.
Do veneers damage your natural teeth?
When applied correctly, veneers do not damage your natural teeth. To ensure a proper fit, a small amount of enamel is usually removed from the surface of the tooth, but this is minimal and does not affect the overall health or strength of the tooth. This process is necessary to allow the veneer to bond securely and look natural. Since only a thin layer of enamel is removed, the tooth remains healthy and protected.
Additionally, once the veneers have been fitted, they act as a sort of protective cover for the underlying tooth, preventing further wear or damage. However, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid habits like grinding teeth, which can affect both the veneers and your natural teeth.
Can veneers be removed?
Veneers are a long-term solution and cannot be removed without replacing them or undergoing further dental treatment. The process of placing veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel, which makes them a permanent alteration to your teeth. If you decide to remove them, it would typically require replacing the veneers with new ones or other dental work.
However, if you’re looking for a removable alternative, you could try something like snap-on veneers. These are not permanently bonded to your teeth and can be taken out and put back in at will. While they offer flexibility, they don’t provide the same level of durability, natural look, or functionality as traditional veneers. Always consult with your dentist to find the best solution for your needs.
Is it possible to get a veneer on just one tooth?
Yes, you can have a veneer placed on a single tooth. If you have a single tooth that is damaged, discoloured, or misaligned, a veneer can be applied to improve its appearance. The veneer will be custom-made to match the shape, size, and colour of your surrounding teeth, ensuring a natural look.
However, while it’s possible to treat one tooth, better results are often achieved when multiple veneers are used. When several veneers are applied, they can provide a more consistent and balanced appearance across your smile. This is especially helpful if other teeth are also in need of cosmetic improvement. Your dentist will assess your individual case and help you decide whether a single veneer or multiple veneers are the best choice for achieving the most aesthetically pleasing result.
Can veneers be repaired if they get damaged?
Yes, veneers can be repaired if they get damaged, but the extent of the repair depends on the type and severity of the damage. Small chips or cracks in porcelain veneers may be repairable by your dentist, who can use bonding material to restore the appearance of the veneer.
However, if the damage is more significant, such as a large crack or complete break, the veneer may need to be replaced. As composite veneers are easier to shape, they can be easily repaired by adding new material to fill in any damage. To avoid damage, it’s important to maintain good oral habits, such as avoiding biting hard objects or grinding your teeth. Regular dental check-ups can also help ensure the longevity and health of your veneers.
Will veneers affect my ability to chew or speak?
Veneers do not affect your ability to chew or speak once they are properly placed.
The procedure is designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth without interfering with their function. After the veneers are bonded, they fit seamlessly with your natural teeth so you should be able eat and speak normally.
Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or slight discomfort during the first few days, especially if veneers have been applied to teeth that were adjusted. However, this is temporary and should fade quickly. If you experience any difficulty chewing or speaking after the procedure, get in touch with your dentist. It’s likely not to be anything major, they simply might need to make minor adjustments to ensure your veneers are comfortable and functional.
What is the difference between veneers and crowns?
The main difference between veneers and crowns is the amount of tooth structure that is covered. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover only the front surface of the tooth, mainly used for cosmetic purposes to improve appearance. They require minimal removal of tooth enamel.
Crowns, on the other hand, are full-coverage restorations that encase the entire tooth. They are often used for teeth that are severely damaged, decayed, or weakened, providing strength and protection. Crowns are more extensive and involve more tooth preparation compared to veneers.
While both veneers and crowns can improve the function and appearance of your teeth, veneers are typically used for aesthetic concerns, while crowns are more often used for restorative purposes when a tooth requires significant repair.
Are there any risks involved with getting veneers?
While getting veneers is generally safe, there are some potential risks to be aware of. One of the most common risks is tooth sensitivity, as a small amount of enamel is removed during the preparation process, which may make your teeth more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
Although uncommon, veneers can become dislodged or break, particularly if exposed to excessive force from biting hard objects or teeth grinding. Additionally, if veneers are not properly fitted, they can cause gum irritation or affect your bite.
It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure the longevity of your veneers. With proper care, most patients experience minimal complications and enjoy a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing result.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have veneers?
Veneers cannot be whitened using traditional teeth whitening treatments. Veneers are made from porcelain or composite resin, which do not respond to whitening products the way natural tooth enamel does. This means that if your veneers become stained or discoloured over time, whitening treatments will not affect them.
However, if you’re unhappy with the colour of your veneers, you can talk through this with your dentist. They may recommend replacing or re-polishing the veneers to restore their brightness and help you feel good about your smile again. It’s also generally important to look after your veneers well, avoid stain-causing foods and drinks, and attend regular dental cleanings.