Veneers are facings that are bonded to the outer surfaces of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are rather like false nails. They can be made of composite filling material or porcelain.

Composite veneers (bondings) are a tooth coloured resin based material which is applied by the dentist to the teeth to alter the appearance and/or the colour of the teeth. They can be done in 1 visit and generally last 7-8 years, at which time they can be done again, or replaced with either componeers or porcelain veneers. They require polishing every 2 years or so. They are the least expensive type of veneer.

Componeers are specially manufactured, very thin composite shells that can be fixed to the front of the front teeth to conceal aesthetic imperfections.

They are an exciting new way to improve the appearance of your teeth. They are ideal for closing gaps between
front teeth, improving the shape of uneven teeth, masking severe tooth discolouration and concealing various other cosmetic problems.

Unlike traditional veneers, there is only minimal tooth reduction required, and sometimes no reduction is needed (Componeers are only 0.3mm in thickness). The treatment is complete in just one visit.

Componeers were devised by Dr Mario Bezec from Switzerland. Both Dr Malone and Dr Heavey trained with Dr. Bezec in London in mastering this technique.

Unlike porcelain veneers, Componeers can be repaired. Their lifespan is approximately 10 years. At only €375 per tooth, they are less than half the cost of traditional porcelain veneers.

To view a short video on the placement of componeers see http://www.componeer.info/

Porcelain veneers are made by the ceramist in a dental laboratory, so 2 visits are required. Usually the teeth need to be reduced a little although much less than for a crown. Porcelain veneers are more expensive due to the fact that they have to be made by a ceramist and require a little more time. They can last 10-12 years.

Porcelain veneers are very hard wearing, however it is recommended that patients do not use them for nailbiting. They are not recommended for patients who grind their teeth or who have an edge to edge bits. These patients should consider veneers or componeers.