Veneers are often associated with the rich and famous and although prices are more competitive than ever before, there may be some cheaper solutions worth considering if you are eager to improve the look of your smile.
About veneers
Veneers are light tooth-shaped shells, which are usually made from porcelain; they are placed on your natural teeth to hide a wide range of cosmetic flaws, from uneven and worn down teeth to chips and staining. There are various different types of veneers available and you can customise your new look by selecting different shades and shapes. Veneer treatment usually involves 2 or 3 sessions around 2-4 weeks apart.
What are the alternatives?
The alternative options tend to depend on why you are thinking about veneers and what kinds of aesthetic issues you wish to address. If you have discoloured teeth, for example, tooth whitening is a more affordable option than veneers. There are different types of whitening treatment available, including home whitening systems and in-chair treatments and the cost is usually around £100-£600. Treatment is usually completed in around 2 weeks, the results are visible straightaway and they should last for several years. Whitening treatment is a safe, simple and painless way of giving your smile that added sparkle.
If you have chipped, worn or misshapen teeth, which look unsightly, you may wish to think about cosmetic bonding, also known as composite bonding. This procedure takes just one hour and it’s painless, so you won’t need to worry about injections or that horrible numb feeling in your mouth. Bonding can be used to reshape and repair the teeth and also to reduce the size of spaces between the teeth as a cheaper alternative to orthodontic braces. Your dentist will use dental composite, which is also used to fill cavities, to carry out minor repairs and adjustments; at room temperature, the composite is soft and this means that it can be shaped easily. When your dentist is happy with the placement of the composite, they will then harden it using a curing light; this only takes a minute and all you have to do is wear some protective goggles and relax. The average cost is around £60-£120.
Tags: City Dental Dentist, composite bonding Leeds, veneer alternatives, veneers
