You will probably have heard of dental veneers, and you would have definitely seen them, most likely on your favourite Hollywood star, or even more likely on someone who’s got so called ‘Turkey Teeth!’ But, these kinds of veneers that you see in magazines or on TV are the absolute extreme. The best veneers fit well and look natural, giving you a great, natural looking white shade for your teeth and a great shape for your mouth - not too big which can be the habit of some that choose veneers, especially overseas!
What are dental veneers?
So, what are dental veneers? Well they are basically a thin tooth-coloured cover for your teeth, that can recreate the perfect tooth on the outside. Dental veneers can be simply for cosmetic reasons (as in someone looking to improve the overall look of their teeth and smile) or they can be clinically necessary to protect and restore damaged teeth. At tooth we usually place veneers for clinically necessary reasons. Veneers can be used to overcome issues of chips, gaps, tooth discolouration and more.
How do dental veneers work?
Dental veneers work by covering the tooth or teeth that need protecting or needs aesthetic enhancement. They are made via a special dental lab, to perfectly fit your existing tooth or teeth and act as a kind of cover for these teeth. To place dental veneer, firstly the tooth or teeth underneath need to be prepared. This involves shaping them so that a veneer can be placed on top. This is why at tooth we don’t recommend veneers on healthy teeth, as the healthy tooth would have to be damaged to prepare for the veneer.
What are dental veneers made from?
Typically dental veneers are normally made of porcelain. This is a material that best mimics a natural tooth for this treatment. They can also be done using composite which is the same material used for white fillings.
How long do dental veneers last?
At tooth dental clinic in Waterloo, a lot of my patients ask ‘how long does a dental veneer last?’
That’s a great question - and the answer depends very much on the individual and the level of care and maintenance that the patient follows after the veneers are placed. They can last many years, but it’s important (just as it is for every patient - even those that don’t have veneers!) to carefully follow the Dentist’s aftercare advise and attend regular dental check ups and dental hygiene appointments. Following the correct aftercare procedures and oral hygiene routine will prolong the lifespan of the veneers. Like any dental restoration, veneers can chip or get damaged, especially front ones, and especially if a patient grinds or clenches. But there are appliances, like night guards that can mitigate for this.
Can anybody have dental veneers?
Yes technically, but like all dental treatments the anatomy and pathology of a patient needs to be assessed in advance for the viability of dental veneers.
How long does it take to fit dental veneers?
The process for dental veneers is quite straightforward. After your initial consultation via a New Patient Exam where the Dentist will assess your whole mouth, take X Rays, and discuss your needs clinically and aesthetically for dental veneers, then a full quote will be given and details of the exact process. Veneers typically start with veneer prep appointment, where the teeth are prepared (shaped) and a digital scan or impressions are taken and this is sent to one of our specially selected dental laboratories. Around two weeks later, you will return for veneer fit, where the veneers are fitted.
Whilst most veneers are porcelain and would follow the timings above, composite veneers are done without the use of a dental lab, so timings would be quicker.
How much do dental veneers cost in London?
Dental veneers at tooth are only £800 for full porcelain veneers (per tooth) and this includes veneer prep and veneer fit too! Composite veneers cost less.
How do I book for dental veneers in London?
Like any treatment at our dentist in Waterloo, it’s always quick, easy and efficient to book a dental veneer or dental treatment with us! Simply press on the Book Now button below, or you can send us a WhatsApp - whichever you prefer. We’ll be in touch really quickly so we can help you start your journey to a confident new you!
If you have any questions about dental veneers please don’t hesitate to ask - at tooth we are always happy to help. Just click here.
Dr. Anna x