Do you want to improve the appearance of your teeth without causing damage to your own natural tooth?
Interested in veneers but can’t afford porcelain veneers?
Composite veneers may be just the thing for you!
What are composite veneers?
Composite veneers are a layer of filing material placed over your natural tooth to improve the shape, colour and general appearance of your teeth. The material used is the same as that of a filling.
What’s good about them?
- Can improve the appearance of your teeth
- Requires one visit
- Can be matched to your natural tooth colour
- Cost less than porcelain veneers
- Natural tooth will not be damaged
What’s bad about them?
- Will not whiten with whitening gel
- No lab work required
- Not as strong as porcelain veneers
- Will not last as long as porcelain veneers
- Longer appointment in the chair
- Can discolour and pick up staining over time
So how are they placed?
Composite veneers are sculpted by the dentist. If you want to whiten your teeth it is recommended you do so before your fit appointment as they will not lighten with the gel.
Placing a composite veneer is similar to placing a filling. Your teeth will not need to have any of the natural tissue taken away. The shade of your teeth will be chosen by you and your dentist. An etching gel is placed, followed by bond then the composite will be placed and the dentist will spend some time sculpting the material in to the desired shape. The material will then be set by a blue light and shaped further if needed.
Will it hurt?
No, as the dentist is not taking away your natural tooth, you should not experience any pain.
How long will they last once placed?
Composite veneers can be expected to last for 5-6 years. After this you can have the veneers replaced.
What if one comes off?
If one of your veneers comes off it can be replaced. Because the tooth was not prepared, it will not be obvious if the veneer comes off. You will need to visit your dentist to have the procedure done again.
Are composite veneers just as good as porcelain?
No. Porcelain veneers are stronger than the composite veneers.
Do I have to take any extra care when I have composite veneers?
When it comes to veneers your oral hygiene should remain the same. We advise on cleaning and flossing on a daily basis. You will need to take care when it comes to biting. If you bite off tape or pen lids you do run a risk of the veneer, composite or porcelain fracturing off.
How much can I expect to pay?
Composite veneers can start from £250.00 per tooth.
How do I know if I am choosing the right practice?
Go to consultations, visit a few and make sure you like the practice and the treatment plan. Read the online reviews and have a look at the before and after pictures of the procedure you are interested in.
