Veneers are truly a remarkable solution for achieving a radiant and confident smile without compromising the health of your natural teeth. At Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, we use the most minimally invasive veneering technique to deliver a conservative solution to transform your smile.
Regardless of whether your teeth are crooked, worn down, chipped, decayed or severely discoloured, veneers can provide the ideal solution to dramatically, yet subtly, change their appearance, without the need to drill your teeth down excessively.
In today’s age of aesthetic dental advancement, subtlety is treasured. As the world of aesthetic dentistry undergoes drastic technological advancement, more people are seeking teeth that look real, not like the big white Chiclets that defined the trend a decade ago. Continue reading to learn more about how dental veneers can help perfect your smile.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are tooth-coloured cosmetic mouldings, often thinner than fingernails, bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They can improve your smile by changing the shape, size, and color of your teeth.
Veneers are commonly made from porcelain or resin composite and can attach to teeth with the help of special cement. Offering a balance of lifelike translucency and opaque whiteness, they can mask any imperfections and improve the appearance of your time-worn chompers.
Although they can be applied to any tooth you wish for, they are commonly attached to the upper eight front teeth of the mouth to create an even and symmetrical smile. These teeth are most visible when you smile.
Who Are Dental Veneers For?
Veneers can be used to address a variety of cosmetic concerns to enhance your smile. Discussed below are some smile flaws that can be remedied by dental veneers:
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Tooth Staining
There are many factors that can cause tooth discoloration and staining. Some common culprits include poor oral hygiene, tobacco in any form, dental trauma, old age, certain medications, foods and drinks, and some conditions like amelogenesis imperfecta and fluorosis. The cumulative effect of these many external causes of tooth discoloration over a lifetime can cause ‘yellowing’ of your teeth.
In addition to that, there are at least two structural changes that make teeth more likely to appear yellow as you grow older. These are the gradual thinning of the enamel, and the thickening of the layer beneath that, the dentin. Age-related wear and tear and things like acidic foods cause the enamel to thin down, exposing the natural yellow-to-brown color of the dentin underneath it. Once the dentin is uncovered, other colouring agents are more easily absorbed by the teeth, worsening the discolouration.
If you desire sparkly white teeth but your diet contains foods and drinks that can easily stain your teeth, such as coffee, wine, and berries, or if you have medication-induced stains that teeth whitening has not been able to get rid of, dentists believe that dental veneers may just turn out to be your holy grail.
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Fractured, Chipped, and Worn-Down Teeth
Tooth fractures, cracks, and uneven tooth edges can be a result of dental trauma, or as a consequence of biting on hard objects, and habits like teeth grinding.
Veneers can be used to cover chipped and worn teeth, a common complaint patients present with at dental clinics, and other imperfections, to provide an even and harmonious smile.
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Size or Shape Irregularities
Slightly crooked, rotated, or smaller-than-average teeth can affect the aesthetics of a smile and cause self-esteem issues for many people. However, dental veneers may provide a quick fix for this problem. Although veneers cannot straighten or realign your teeth, they can still address this issue by covering the crooked teeth and giving your smile an even and uniform look to some extent.
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Teeth Gaps
Teeth gaps can be quite a cause of embarassment and negatively affect self-esteem. Gaps between teeth are commonly closed with braces, that can take a long time to show results. Dental veneers, on the other hand, are a popular choice for concealing any spaces or gaps you might have in either your front teeth or throughout the rest of your dentition in a matter of just a few weeks. Although veneers aren’t preferred for closing very large gaps, they’re ideal for small gaps to give you a smile you can flaunt with confidence.
At Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, we’re committed to helping you achieve an awe-inspiring smile you can wear confidently. If you are not happy about the way your teeth look, please do not hesitate to get in touch and let us take care of it.
What Materials Are Used to Make Veneers?
The most common form of veneer is porcelain veneers, which typically need to be glued onto a rough surface, created by shaving off a layer of your teeth, the enamel. Porcelain veneers can fix a wide range of dental issues, including darkly stained and abnormally positioned teeth. These veneers don’t stain or chip over time, so you never have to worry about the aesthetics of your smile deteriorating in the long run.
Composite veneers, which allow a resin, the same material used for filling cavities, to be applied directly onto your teeth, can avoid removing tooth structure. They can be applied either directly or indirectly to your teeth.
At Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, Manchester, we also offer e-max veneers crafted from high-quality glass ceramic material. These veneers require less tooth reduction than traditional porcelain veneers, making them a more conservative treatment option. E-max veneers have exceptional aesthetic qualities and provide your teeth with the natural luster and translucence characteristic of a healthy, beautiful smile. This can be attributed to the translucence, opalescence, and light diffusion properties of the glass ceramic material from which these veneers are fabricated. One of the biggest advantages of e-Max veneers is their ability to closely match the shade of your natural teeth, so they integrate seamlessly into your smile for a natural look. With e-max veneers, you can choose a shade that precisely matches your natural tooth colour to give you a smile that’s uniquely flawless.
There are pros and cons of each type of veneer, so it’s important to keep into consideration the kind of problem you’re hoping to solve with them to make sure you choose the right one. An ideal veneer would meet your needs perfectly. Your budget is also an important factor that needs to be taken into consideration before making the leap.
What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Veneers?
To get dental veneers, you will need to visit your dentist two or three times. Outlined below are the subsequent steps you can expect during those appointments:
The Initial Consultation
On your first visit, the consultation visit, your dentist will mainly assess whether or not you are a good candidate for veneers. A detailed history and a physical examination will provide them with valuable insight for figuring that out.
A comprehensive history will help your dentist understand why you want to get veneers. When they know why you want them, they will be able to provide you with the kind of veneers best suited to your needs.
The physical exam is carried out to take a look at your oral hygiene and identify any other issues in your mouth, for example, cavities or gum disease. This is important so these problems can be addressed before proceeding with the veneers. During this visit, your dentist might take X-rays, photos, and impressions of your teeth.
If your dentist does not consider you a suitable candidate for veneers, they will suggest a more suitable alternative treatment option and devise a customised treatment plan accordingly.
Teeth Preparation and Fitting and Bonding of the Veneers
Once you’ve been deemed fit for veneers by your dentist, they will proceed with the procedure. Your teeth will need to be ‘prepared’ to receive the veneers. This means that the front surface of your teeth will need to slightly be trimmed down in order to make room for the veneer to comfortably sit atop them.
Before doing that, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque that might interfere with the bonding process of the tooth to the veneer. After that, they will shave off an insignificant amount of your tooth enamel and slightly ‘roughen’ the surface of the tooth to which the veneer will be applied. This step of enamel removal is essential to ensure the cement adheres properly to the tooth and keeps the veneer in place.
It is worth mentioning that not all cases require drilling. If you have small or gapped teeth, your dentist might just glue veneers to them without removing any enamel.
Your dentist will then take an impression of your teeth and send it to the laboratory. A lab technician will fabricate and customise your veneers according to your unique dental anatomy.
Once the veneers are ready, your dentist will have you try them on to check their size, color, fit, and overall appearance in your mouth. They will also assess the way your upper and lower teeth come together and make any necessary adjustments. If you’re not completely satisfied with the shape or color of your new veneers, this is the stage at which you can let your dentist know, and they’ll have it fixed for you.
If everything is okay, your veneers will be bonded to your teeth with a specialised cement right away. If not, they may need to be sent back to the lab for adjustments. Although this isn’t a painful procedure, your dentist might give you a local anesthetic to make you comfortable. The anesthesia might make your gums feel a little sore for some time afterward, but rest assured that you’ll be fine in a few hours.
What is the Aftercare for Dental Veneers?
Taking care of your veneers doesn’t require any more effort than your regular oral care. We’ve put together an aftercare checklist to help you make sure you take the right steps necessary to keep your veneers in good shape:
Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Brush all surfaces of your teeth carefully twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Refrain from using abrasive toothpaste containing harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, as they can harm your delicate veneers.
- Floss carefully between the teeth and around the veneer every day to remove food debris and plaque stuck in the tiny crevices.
Do not bite into hard things.
- Take care not to bite on hard foods such as raw fruits and vegetables, meat with bones, ice, and hard candy, especially with your front teeth sporting the veneers. Doing so can chip or fracture your veneers.
Ditch unhealthy habits.
- To prevent damage to your veneers, avoid using your teeth as tools to cut, open, or tear anything. If you have a habit of chewing on ice, ditch it.
Protect your new smile.
- If you unconsciously clench or grind your teeth, your dentist may suggest that you wear a nightguard while sleeping to prevent damage to your veneers. If you play contact sports, it is best that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from accidental blows to the face.
See your dentist regularly.
- Schedule regular dental appointments to allow routine check-ups and cleanings. These appointments allow your dentist to inspect your mouth and make sure that your veneers are in good shape.
With these daily practices, you can guarantee good dental care and maintenance of your veneers.
Are There Any Downsides to Getting Dental Veneers?
There are a few problems that can arise when you get veneers. These include:
- Tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is the most common complaint after getting veneers. You may experience slight sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the procedure as it involves the removal of your tooth enamel, the topmost layer of your teeth. However, this usually subsides on its own within a few days, so you shouldn’t worry about it too much.
We know that tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but there are some easy remedies available to help you manage it effectively. We recommend using toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth during this time to help ease the pain. Using this toothpaste can also repair and strengthen your weakened tooth enamel.
- Irreversible tooth structure loss. As your dentist has to temper your natural tooth structure and remove some enamel to make room for the veneers, it is an irreversible procedure. If an insufficient amount of enamel is removed before placing veneers, it will make your teeth look bulky and ruin the aesthetics of your smile.
Your enamel cannot regrow once removed. This means that getting veneers changes your tooth structure permanently.
- Veneer breakage. Dental veneers, especially porcelain veneers, are hailed for being exceptionally durable. However, they can still break, chip, or fracture if excessive force or pressure is applied to them. Although broken veneers are repairable, the process is costly.
- Tooth decay below veneers. If veneers are done poorly and are not bonded closely to your natural teeth, it’s possible for bacteria and food particles to become lodged between your tooth and the veneer. If left unaddressed, this can cause tooth decay to commence beneath the veneers. If you notice that your veneers are starting to break down or detect a cavity developing underneath them, immediately see your dentist and have them checked. They must be replaced promptly to prevent decay from destroying the remaining tooth structure below the veneer.
Are There any Contraindications for Dental Veneers?
While most people can safely get dental veneers, there are a few cases where dental veneers are not advised, including:
- Habitual teeth-rinding during sleep. Patients who have a habit of clenching their teeth and aggressively biting their nails have a heightened risk of damaging their teeth and veneers. To reduce your risk of dental and veneer trauma and ensure good long-term results, it is advisable to address the cause of this habit before getting dental veneers.
- Poor oral hygiene. Taking good care of your veneers to ensure they look and function well for years to come is a must. Veneers require meticulous cleaning to prevent decay or gum disease from developing around the edges and maintaining their appearance. If you really want dental veneers, you need to be willing to take excellent care of your oral hygiene.
- Not enough tooth enamel. A sufficient layer of enamel is crucial for dental veneers to bond to the teeth properly. Without enough enamel to bond to, they won’t be able to adhere to your teeth and may cause problems later on. If you have a tooth that doesn’t have sufficient enamel present, you will need alternative treatment options, like a crown (to fully cover your teeth).
- Active gum disease. If you have severe gum disease, it must be addressed before dental veneer placement, as it can weaken the bond of the veneer to the teeth and compromise its longevity and long-term success.
- Excessively crooked teeth. Although dental veneers can successfully conceal the appearance of mildly crooked teeth, they won’t be able to address problems cause by teeth that are severely malposed. Instead, you will require braces instead to fix it.
Despite offering a plethora of very tempting benefits, dental veneers are not for everyone. Your dentist will carefully determine if you’re a good candidate for this treatment option before proceeding with the procedure. This will ensure you get the most out of your treatment.
How Much Do Veneers Cost in Manchester?
At Bespoke Dental & Implant Clinic, we prioritise quality and perfection to the nth degree and take the time to guide you through the full selection of materials available. While prices may differ across various clinics, we pride ourselves in working only with the most skilled master technicians and experienced dental professionals to ensure you receive the best dental care possible and results you are content with.
Here is a fee guide for dental veneers to give you a rough estimate of the cost:
- Emax Veneers: from £699
- Porcelain Veneers: from £899
- Premium Veneers: from £1,199
- 4 Veneers: from £2,399
- 8 Veneers: from £3,999
- 16 Veneers: from £7,999
Financing and Payment Options
At Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, Manchester, we offer flexible payment options tailored to meet all financial needs and budgets.
Talk to your dentist to discuss financing options in detail and allow them to devise a plan for you that best suits your budget.
Choosing the Right Dentist in Manchester
When considering any dental treatment, it is important that you choose a highly skilled and qualified dentist. Your dental health is important, and we recommend you give it the time and attention it deserves.
Choosing the right dentist goes a long way to ensuring that you receive the best possible dental care. With a treatment that’s not only right for you and suits your needs but also maintains your overall oral health, you can rest assured that your dental needs are taken care of. To get the best results and a more positive experience, take the time to research and find a good dentist, and your teeth will thank you later.
At Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, Manchester, you can rest assured that the dental work done will be tailored to your face and aesthetic to give you a smile that’s unique yet beautiful and harmonious.
In a Nutshell
If you want to get a dazzling new smile without having to undergo extensive dental work and deal with long waiting times, dental veneers are what you’re looking for. They’re thin tooth-colored wafer-thin shells that are bonded atop filed-down teeth, fixing mild smile flaws.
There are many kinds of dental veneers available, and at Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, we will pick one that is best suited to your needs and preferences. This needs to be an informed decision, so don’t hesitate to discuss your expectations with your dentist.
With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years. Speak to an expert to get the best tips for caring for your veneers to enjoy a beautiful smile that not only looks great but makes you feel great, too! Call 0161 637 7370 or click here to book a consultation today.
FAQs
What problems can dental veneers fix?
Veneers can be used to conceal smile imperfections and fix many dental issues, including:
- Unsightly gaps and spacing between teeth.
- Crooked, mildly malposed, or uneven teeth.
- Shape or size irregularities in teeth (such as pointy teeth, smaller-than-average teeth or unusually shaped teeth).
- Discoloured or stained teeth that cannot be treated with tooth whitening procedures.
- Smiles with excessive gum show (gummy smiles).
- Cracked or chipped teeth.
- Decayed teeth that have become discoloured.
How long do dental veneers last?
Veneers can last long, but they’re not indestructible. The lifespan of a dental veneer depends mainly on how well you take care of it. Porcelain veneers have a longer lifespan than other types of veneers and can last for more than ten years, on average. Composite veneers, on the other hand, can last about five years at the most and may require frequent repairs.
Does it hurt when you get veneers?
At Bespoke Dental and Implant Clinic, Manchester, our first priority is your comfort. We make sure that you feel no pain or experience any discomfort during the procedure. You’ll also be pleased to know that there is no or minimal downtime following veneer placement. This means that you can resume your daily activities after your dentist’s appointment the same day. You might expect slight discomfort or mild tooth sensitivity right after getting veneers, but it usually subsides within a week or two. If it goes on for longer than that, please visit your dentist and let them know.
Can you eat normally with veneers?
Most foods are safe to consume with porcelain veneers. However, we advise that you exercise caution when eating hard foods like apples, hard candy, raw carrots, and bone-in meats. There is a possibility of cracking the porcelain when biting down on extremely hard foods. For this reason, we recommend that you use your back teeth to chew on these foods instead of the front teeth sporting the veneers.
We also advise that you limit your intake of black tea and coffee, red wine, and products containing tobacco, as they may stain your veneers. Reducing alcohol consumption will also keep them functioning well for years to come, as alcohol can dissolve the adhesive cement used to glue the veneers to your teeth.