A Beginner’s Guide to Cosmetic Dentistry in Ireland

Cosmetic dentistry in Ireland has really taken off, but not everyone knows what it is. Here’s our guide.

With the rising interest in cosmetic dentistry in Ireland, which gives people the kind of teeth they’ve always dreamed of — and a great, big, radiant smile — many people are starting to search for information about this branch of dentistry and to see if they would benefit. In this blog, we’re going to look at the basics of cosmetic dentistry in Ireland, giving you the facts you need to decide if you’d like to proceed with having some aesthetic work done on your teeth.

What Is Considered Cosmetic Dentistry?

Essentially, anything you do to change the natural state and look of your teeth, gums or bite is cosmetic dentistry — just as altering any other part of your body so it looks better would be a cosmetic procedure. Cosmetic dentistry in Ireland takes several forms. They include:

Dental Bonding

This procedure involves applying a small amount of resin to a tooth to alter its appearance and function. It’s a quick and highly affordable type of cosmetic dentistry. Dental bonding is perfect for cracked or chipped teeth, as the resin fills in any spaces —as well as any gaps between the teeth.

Patient suitability: Most people with good oral health will be a good candidate for dental bonding.

Cost: Low — usually around €150 or less, making this cheap cosmetic dentistry.

Time it takes: Just one appointment is all that’s usually necessary to have dental bonding done.

Teeth Whitening

Your dentist can provide you with a professional teeth whitening kit that will give you great results — lightening the colour of your teeth by several shades over a week or two. It’s done at home after a mould is taken of your teeth at the dentist. This mould is the template for the tray that holds the whitening solution that’s then fitted to your teeth for short periods.

Patient suitability: Almost everyone with healthy teeth and gums.

Cost: €190, at The James Clinic.

Time it takes: Between one and two weeks.

Dental Implants

These create an artificial tooth after the original is lost either through extraction or falling out as a result of an infection or accident. Dental implants involve a screw placed in the gum, to which a connecting device is inserted. A dental crown is then placed over it to give the appearance of a real tooth. Dental implants have a high success rate.

Patient suitability: Several factors influence the eligibility of patients to have dental implants, such as gum health and whether they are a smoker.

Cost: Dental implants typically cost several thousand euros. The James Clinic offers interest-free financing to help spread the cost.

Time it takes: You’ll need several appointments spread over a number of months, as healing must take place between the different stages of constructing a dental implant.

Crowns and Veneers

This is where Hollywood smiles are made. Crowns involve placing a porcelain shell around an entire tooth, while veneers are just a sliver of porcelain placed on the front of the tooth. Crowns also serve a protective function, keeping out infections, corrosive foods and buffering shocks. In both cases, the tooth or teeth will need to be filed back to make space for the prosthesis. Crowns and veneers are hard-wearing and generally resistant to stains, as the porcelain doesn’t absorb materials as tooth enamel does. With proper care, they will last for years.

Patient suitability: Your dentist will determine if you are a suitable candidate for crowns or veneers, depending on your oral health, and which option is best for you.

Cost: Around €600 per tooth, so it’s not exactly cheap cosmetic dentistry, but the dazzling results are certainly worth the investment.

Time it takes: Dental crowns and veneers can now be fitted in as little as one day — like at The James Clinic, with our One Day Smile Makeover.

If you would like to know more about cosmetic dentistry in Ireland, contact The James Clinic today and we will be happy to tell you everything you need to know — including about our interest-free payment plan. Get in touch now.