Cosmetic dentistry is a popular and rapidly advancing aspect of our services that aims to improve the appearance of teeth and gums to enhance the overall look of our patient’s smiles. But, with so many treatments available, you may not know where to begin or what to expect in terms of cost.
Our cosmetic treatments can address an array of concerns, including discolouration, misalignment, a “gummy smile“, gaps between teeth, fractures and chips, and are available to those living in Blackrock, Roscrea, Castletroy, and Limerick. We also offer transparent pricing and the option to pay later with 0% interest.
This complete guide to cosmetic dentistry is your ultimate resource that covers everything you need to know about the latest trends and treatments we provide, ranging from teeth whitening to veneers. We’ll take you through the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment. So whether you’re ready to take the plunge or simply curious about the options available, read on to discover all you need to know about cosmetic dentistry.
#1 Smile Makeovers
If you’re seeking a complete transformation of your smile rather than addressing one specific concern, a Smile Makeover could be the perfect solution for you. A smile makeover is a multidisciplinary procedure that aims to create a flawless, stunning smile that’s similar to those of celebrities.
We can combine a mixture of cosmetic treatments, such as crowns, veneers, dental implants, gum contouring, teeth whitening and composite bonding, to completely transform your teeth and gums.
The ultimate goal of a smile makeover is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that enhances your self-esteem and confidence. Unlike other treatments that address a specific concern, a smile makeover takes a holistic approach, considering multiple factors, such as facial symmetry, facial tone, teeth colour and shape, to create a customised plan.
Our dentists will thoroughly examine your smile during your consultation and discuss your needs and goals. We will also provide a detailed breakdown of the treatment cost and explore the payment options available. As a smile makeover is tailored to your specific needs and goals, we’re only able to discuss pricing once you’ve had this initial consultation.
A smile makeover has many benefits, including improved self-confidence and self-esteem, a more attractive appearance and better dental health. Our team has mitigated some of the drawbacks of this treatment by providing finance options to make the cost more manageable. We’ve also extended our opening hours (including weekends) to accommodate the multiple appointments necessary for a smile makeover so they fit into your busy schedule.
#2 Composite Bonding
Composite bonding, also known as dental bonding, has recently become a huge craze due to its non-invasive and reversible nature and ability to produce impressive results in just one visit.
This treatment is designed to address common signs of wear and tear, such as chips, gaps between teeth, minor fractures and discolouration, using a specially formulated tooth-coloured resin. It is an excellent option for those seeking painless and drill-free dental care to give their lacklustre teeth a well-deserved touch-up. Additionally, it’s more budget-friendly than alternative procedures, such as crowns and veneers.
During treatment, we’ll choose a resin that matches your natural tooth colour. If you hope to achieve a brighter, whiter smile, we recommend a simple teeth whitening treatment before starting the composite bonding process. We’ll then prepare your teeth by buffing and coating them with a special liquid to ensure a smooth application. Once dried, we will layer the resin and mould it to your desired shape before securing it under UV light. To ensure a perfect finish, our dentists will polish your teeth at the end of the treatment, so they match the rest of your natural smile.
The initial exam fee is €50, which we will deduct from your final treatment cost. Composite bonding costs between €150 – €350 per tooth, depending on what you’re trying to correct.
Composite bonding offers several benefits, such as enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your teeth; being a non-invasive, straightforward, and reversible process; and being more cost-effective than other cosmetic treatments. Nevertheless, the resin material used in the bonding procedure is susceptible to chipping, staining and breaking, which means it does require more maintenance. Additionally, composite bonding is not recommended for major restorations.
#3 Veneers
Veneers are small porcelain shells designed to correct gaps between teeth, misalignment, irregularly shaped teeth, short teeth, chips, cracks and discoloration. With veneers, you can enjoy a beautiful, straight and natural-looking smile in no time. And up close, the high-quality porcelain used has a far superior appearance compared to bonding resin.
The most significant difference between veneers and composite bonding is that we must first prepare the subject tooth before fitting the veneer, which involves removing some of the enamel to allow the porcelain shell to adhere fully. For this reason, veneers are a permanent solution that we cannot reverse.
This procedure takes at least two visits, so the tooth can be prepared and shade-matched. The veneer will then be created in a lab and fitted. Once in place, a veneer can last for years with proper care and maintenance, and with a bit of care, you won’t need to spend money on extra upkeep.
Lately, there has been a trend among online influencers to travel overseas for veneers and dental crowns. At Shields Dental & Orthodontic Clinic, we strictly follow dental practices regulated and enforced by the Dental Council of Ireland. However, dentists abroad may not adhere to the same safety and hygiene standards as those followed domestically. While the upfront cost of overseas dental treatment may seem more affordable, the expenses involved in rectifying any complications or issues arising from these treatments often far exceed any price difference. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution before deciding to undergo veneer treatment in a different country.
Veneers start at €1100 per tooth, but the investment is well worth it for many patients.
Veneers provide a natural-looking, high-quality appearance while being resistant to stains and offering durability. They can also fix several dental issues. We understand that they can be costly without the buy now, pay later scheme, and once you commit to preparing the tooth for veneers, it’s irreversible. Considering these factors is essential when deciding whether veneers are right for you.
#4 Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening is an easy and safe procedure that delivers BIG results. Our esteemed dentists will provide custom-made whitening trays that you’ll add hydrogen peroxide gel to and wear for several hours a day for a few weeks until a brighter smile is achieved.
Whitening works for natural teeth only and is therefore unsuitable for changing the colour of dentures, crowns, veneers or bonding. So if you plan on getting any of these treatments, we recommend a whitening treatment first.
The effects of teeth whitening can last anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. Therefore, you’ll need to regularly touch up your whitening treatment to maintain your results. This treatment can also cause temporary sensitivity, particularly during the early stages. If you experience discomfort, we recommend taking a break from the treatment for a day or two and using a desensitising toothpaste to alleviate any discomfort.
The price for teeth whitening treatment is €250-€400. However, some of our treatments, such as dental implants and Invisalign, include free teeth whitening.
Teeth whitening is an excellent treatment for improving the aesthetics of your smile and your confidence. It’s non-invasive, affordable and delivers big results in just one visit. However, some people may experience sensitivity, and the effects of the treatment are temporary. The longevity of the results depends on your lifestyle choices and dental care practices.
Considering Cosmetic Dentistry Near You? Contact Us at Shields Dental & Orthodontic Clinic in Blackrock, Roscrea, Castletroy and Limerick.
Simply give us a call on 061 539034 or book online for a treatment consultation. For further enquiries, book to have a chat with our Treatment Coordinator, Kelly Wallace.
We look forward to welcoming you!
