Composite Veneers – Costs, Procedure, Pros and Cons, Aftercare
Considering composite resin veneers in the UK? This complete guide covers everything you need to know before getting resin veneers – costs, procedure, pros and cons, aftercare, and more!
What Are Composite Veneers?
Composite veneers, sometimes called resin veneers, are thin shells made of plastic dental resin that cover the visible surface of teeth. Less expensive than traditional porcelain, they bond directly to teeth to improve the colour, shape, size and position of teeth. The custom-fit coverings create a dramatic improvement with minimally invasive prep work.
How Much Do Composite Veneers Cost in the UK?
The average cost of composite veneers in the UK ranges from £250-£500 per tooth. This makes composites roughly half the price of porcelain alternatives, which cost £550-£1500 or more per veneer. Factors impacting composite veneer costs include:
- Dentist’s experience and training
- Composite material used
- Number of veneers required
- Additional dental care/prep required before placement
- Geographic location and overhead costs of the dental office
Leading dental clinics like Bayswater Dental Clinic offer composite veneers in the middle of the price spectrum at around £500-800 per tooth. Their cosmetic dentists have advanced training in the latest bonding techniques. This provides beautiful, hassle-free results that make composite veneers an affordable alternative to transform your smile.
The Composite Veneer Process Step-by-Step
Getting composite veneers takes just 2-3 quick dentist visits:
Initial Consultation
The dentist evaluates your teeth, takes impressions and discuss aesthetic preferences. Temporary veneers may be placed.
Tooth Preparation
Teeth are lightly filed to create space for veneer thickness. No shots or anaesthesia needed.
Bonding Appointment
Composite material is applied directly onto teeth in thin, custom-contoured layers that harden with a curing light. The dentist meticulously sculpts veneers to the desired shape.
Follow-Up
Within a couple weeks, the dentist evaluates the bite and aesthetics, making minor adjustments if needed.
Benefits of Composite Veneers
More and more people opt for resin veneers over porcelain thanks to the many benefits:
- Cost Savings Less than half the price of porcelain
- Minimally Invasive Conserves more natural tooth
- Quick Results Completed in as little as 2 dental visits
- Aesthetics Mimics teeth for a flawless look
- Easy Fixes Repairs and replacements are simpler
- Biocompatible Material Chemically bonds for optimal adhesion
- Stain Resistant Non-porous and stain resistant
While not as durable as porcelain long-term, composite positively impacts affordability and tooth preservation.
Are You a Good Candidate for Composite Veneers?
Ideal candidates have healthy underlying teeth needing only minor alignment or shape modifications. Composite works well for:
- Minor chips, gaps or worn edges
- Irregularly shaped or mildly crooked teeth
- Stained or mildly discoloured teeth
- Slightly gapped front teeth
If properly cared for, composites veneers can last 5-10 years before replacement is needed. Severe tooth decay and candidates prone to habits like teeth grinding or nail biting are better suited to porcelain veneers or dental crowns.
Caring for Your Composite Veneers
While durable, composite veneers do require proper care. Be sure to:
- Brush & floss gently daily
- See your dentist every 6 months
- Avoid biting nails and hard foods
- Wear a nightguard if you grind teeth
This protects against fractures and minimises staining or detachment. Small chips and minor cracks can usually be repaired easily without a full replacement.
Composite Veneers vs Porcelain Veneers
Still deciding between options? Here’s how they compare:
Cost
- Composite = £250-500 per tooth
- Porcelain = £500+ per tooth
Durability
- Porcelain lasts 10-15 years
- Composite lasts 5-10 years
Appearance
- Porcelain mimics teeth better
- But composites look very natural
Process
- Composites = less invasive
- Porcelain requires more reshaping
Repairability
- Composites are easier to patch
As you can see, composite resin veneers offer a more affordable middle ground without sacrificing exceptional aesthetics. Their conservative approach also buys time before committing to pricier or more aggressive options.
Why Choose Bayswater Dental Clinic for Your Composite Veneers?
Known for world-class dentistry in the heart of London, Bayswater Dental Clinic offers exceptional composite veneers matched to your unique smile. Their experienced dentists leverage cutting-edge materials for stunning outcomes every patient.
Transform Your Smile Today!
Ready to improve your smile’s shape, size or shade? Now that you know the costs, benefits and process, composite veneers offer an affordable and effective option. Contact Bayswater Dental Clinic in the UK for veneers cost to further discuss the best solutions for your goals, budget and lifestyle needs. The results will have your smiling wider in no time!
Long-Term Savings of Composite Veneers
While composite veneers have a lower upfront cost than porcelain, choosing composite can also result in long-term savings:
Fewer Replacements: Composite veneers may not last as many years as porcelain, but they do avoid intensive tooth reshaping. This makes replacement every 5-10 years non-invasive and affordable.
Easier Repairs: Small chips and cracks in composite veneers can often be filled or patched instead of replacing the entire veneer. This also leads to long-term cost savings.
Benefits Beyond Cost Savings
The advantages of composite veneers go well beyond affordability. Additional benefits include:
Conservation of Tooth Structure: Preparing a tooth for a veneer with composite removes less interior tooth matter. This minimally invasive approach preserves more of the natural tooth over the long run.
Versatility: Composite resin as a material is highly versatile and can be layered in numerous colors and effects. Skilled cosmetic dentists can achieve truly customized, natural aesthetics.
Biocompatibility: Today’s composite bonding agents and dental adhesives are highly compatible. This means optimal adhesion and minimized sensitivity long after placement.
Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist You Can Trust
Since technical skill and aesthetics heavily impact results, always vet your potential cosmetic dentist thoroughly. Be sure to:
- See examples of smile makeover work they have done with composites specifically.
- Learn about their specific training in adhesive dentistry and direct composite bonding techniques.
- Ask plenty of questions at consultations. Evaluate their listening skills and aesthetic vision.
- Read reviews of the dentists work from past patients.
This helps ensure the practice not only offers affordable pricing, but also the experience to back up excellent results.
Conclusion: Are Composite Veneers Right for You?
In the world of smile makeovers, resin veneers cost varies greatly depending on material and dentist choice. This is why composite veneers are an appealing option, offering substantial cost savings over porcelain. With advancements in bonding techniques and materials, composites also deliver beautiful, minimally invasive results.
So if you have underlying tooth and gum health, but want to realign, brighten or perfect minor imperfections with your smile, composite veneers remain a viable and affordable alternative. Just be sure to do your homework when selecting a knowledgeable dentist you connect well with. This ensures optimal aesthetics and value out of your investment in a more radiant, confidence-boosting smile.