Veneers or composite bonding – what are they and what’s the best option for me?

Thinking about treatment options for chipped, cracked or misshapen teeth? Cosmetic dentistry can help restore your smile and regain your confidence using treatments such as veneers and composite bonding. But what treatment would best suit you? Here’s a detailed overview of each:

What are veneers?

Veneers are a cosmetic dental treatment that offer an effective way of restoring discoloured, chipped or misshapen teeth. They can also cover gaps between your teeth when orthodontic treatment isn’t a suitable option. They’re traditionally made from porcelain and are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to mimic the shape, size, and colour in order to create a natural look. Recent technological improvements have resulted in veneers being made from a variety of materials with excellent strength and aesthetic properties. You can get veneers on single or multiple teeth, depending on your individual needs and the cosmetic result you want to achieve.

How are veneers fitted?

Once your dentist has decided that veneers are a suitable treatment option for you, they’ll talk you through your options. In some cases it is necessary to prepare your teeth so they can hold veneers. Your dentist will remove a thin layer of the enamel from your teeth, so that the veneers can fit smoothly. In some cases, preparation isn’t necessary and the veneers can be attached straight on to your teeth. In both cases, , your dentist will create bespoke veneers to fit your teeth by taking an impression of your mouth. While this is being made, your dentist might place temporary covers over your teeth. Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will attach them to the front of your teeth and secure them permanently. If it has been necessary to prepare the teeth, then veneers are an irreversible procedure that change the structure of your natural teeth, so you need to be sure that they’re right for you. If preparation isn’t required, the procedure is reversible.

What are the benefits of veneers?

• Long-lasting fix for chipped, discoloured, small gaps or misshapen teeth
• Stain resistant and durable
• Produce bright, natural-looking results

How long do veneers last?

Veneers can last around 10-15 years, but only if they’re cared for properly. Your veneers will need regular care and attention – just like your natural teeth. It’s important you brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily and see your dentist regularly to maintain good oral health.

What is composite bonding?

Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment which helps to fill chips, gaps, or fractures between your teeth and is very different to veneers.
Your dentist will attach composite resin to your tooth and reshape it, so it blends in with the rest of your teeth. The resin will be matched to the colour of your teeth, so it’ll look natural.

What’s the treatment process for composite bonding?

Your dentist will begin by selecting a resin that matches the colour of your natural teeth. They’ll then prepare your tooth or teeth for treatment by gently roughening the surface of the tooth. Then they’ll coat your tooth with a liquid that will ensure the resin sets effectively. Your dentist will apply the resin and mould it to the desired shape, before hardening it with a UV light. They will reshape the resin until it matches your teeth and looks natural.

What are the benefits of composite bonding?

• Treatment usually takes just one visit
• A fast and effective way of fixing minor cosmetic issues and improving your smile
• Can be a cheaper treatment option than crowns or veneers
• It’s a non-invasive procedure, which means the structure of your tooth remains intact after treatment

How long does composite bonding last?

Composite bonds can last for years as long as you maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist for regular check-ups. Composite resin isn’t as strong as the enamel in your natural teeth, so you should take care to avoid extra hard foods that could crack the resin. In some cases, the composite resin can pick up stain over time.

Considering cosmetic dentistry?

Here at Smiles Dental, we’ve been helping people in Ireland improve their smile since 2005. So, if you’re conscious about the appearance of your teeth – whether they’re discoloured, chipped, misshapen or you have gaps – there’s a good chance we can help you with veneers or composite bonding. Book a consultation at your local Smiles Dental practice to discuss your treatment options and see how we can restore your smile.




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