Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic treatment option for people who want to improve the appearance of their natural teeth. Veneers can correct a wide range of dental issues, such as discoloured or misshapen teeth, and give patients the confidence to smile brightly. However, veneers cost per tooth can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of material used and the cosmetic dentists or dental lab’s experience. This blog post will explore what to expect and consider regarding veneer cost per tooth.
What Are Veneers?
Firstly, what are veneers? Dental veneers are tooth-coloured shells that cover imperfections on the teeth’s surface. The shells are made either of composite resin or porcelain. Composite veneers are made from a mixture of plastic and glass, while porcelain veneers are made of ceramic. Porcelain veneers are widely popular because of their durability, resistance to stains, and natural-looking appearance. Composite veneers, on the other hand, are ideal for addressing minor issues such as chips or cracks.
Benefits of Veneers
Dental veneers offer many benefits beyond enhancing the appearance of your teeth. They can also improve your oral health by making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Another benefit of veneers is that they are durable and long-lasting with proper care. They can also improve the appearance of teeth discoloured from medication, root canals, or staining from drinks such as tea, coffee, or wine.
Moreover, they can give you a natural-looking, brighter smile to boost your confidence.
Types of Veneers
There are two main types of dental veneers: porcelain and composite veneers.
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain fitted to the front of your teeth by a cosmetic dentist. They are custom-made to match your natural teeth’ shape, size, and colour. Porcelain veneers offer a durable option for people who want to improve the appearance of their teeth. The cost of porcelain veneers varies depending on the number of veneers placed, the location, and the dentist’s experience.
Composite veneers are made of composite resin, which is applied to the teeth in layers, creating a strong and durable bond. They are less expensive than porcelain veneers but can break or wear down over time.
Factors that Affect Veneers Cost
Materials Used
One critical factor affecting veneers’ cost is the materials used for the treatment. Porcelain veneers cost more than composite resin veneers because they look more durable and natural. Porcelain veneers are created in the dental lab, requiring multiple sessions to be installed correctly. Composite veneers are more affordable and can be done in a single session in the dental office. Composite veneers cost less than porcelain veneers but do not last as long as traditional ones.
Geographic Location
The location of the dental veneer treatment can significantly affect the cost. If you live in a metropolitan city or a city with a high cost of living, the cost of veneers may be higher. This is because the cost of living, office rent, and staff salaries are generally higher in these areas. If you live in a rural area or a city with a lower cost of living, the veneers cost may be lower. Hence, geographic location is a determining factor in the cost of veneers.
Dentist’s Experience and Reputation
An experienced dentist with a good reputation will charge more for dental veneer treatments than a less experienced one, just like in any other profession. An experienced dentist will perform the treatment with fewer complications and ensure aesthetically pleasing outcomes. Thus, choosing an experienced cosmetic dentist with a track record of performing excellent dental veneer treatments is crucial to achieving the best results.
Number of Teeth Being Treated
The number of teeth being treated can affect the cost of veneers. Typically, the cost per tooth decreases if more teeth are being treated. If you’re having multiple teeth treated, ask your dentist if there’s a possible discount for multiple veneers.
Additional Procedures Needed
Additional procedures, such as gum contouring, might be required before installing veneers. The veneers will not look natural if the gums are in good shape. Gum contouring can be expensive and add to the overall cost of the dental veneer treatment.
How Much Do Veneers Cost Per Tooth?
Composite veneers, on the other hand, are made from a composite resin that is bonded directly to the tooth enamel. They are less expensive than porcelain veneers but require more maintenance and are less durable.
The cost of composite veneers starts from $400 per tooth.
Other Considerations
Insurance Coverage
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover veneers because they’re considered elective cosmetic treatments. However, some plans may cover part of the cost if the veneers are deemed medically necessary. For example, if the dental issue affects the functioning of the teeth, such as severe wear or tooth erosion, insurance may cover the cost. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to determine what’s covered and what’s not. If the cost of veneers is not covered by insurance, consider exploring other payment options, such as financing or payment plans.
Long-term Maintenance Costs
Veneers are not a one-time cost; they require ongoing care to maintain appearance and function. Good oral hygiene prevents decay and gum disease around the veneers. Regular check-ups and dentist clean-ups are also important to catch any issues early on. Veneers may also need to be replaced over time due to wear or damage. Composite veneers are more prone to chipping and may need to be replaced more often than porcelain veneers. Investigating these long-term maintenance costs is important when budgeting for veneers.
Conclusion
Veneers are a valuable investment for those seeking cosmetic treatment to improve their smile. However, it’s essential to consider the potential cost per tooth, the different types of veneers, and the expertise of the cosmetic dentist and dental lab. Consultation with our experienced cosmetic dentists and good oral hygiene can help prolong the life of veneers and avoid additional dental costs. With proper care, veneers can provide patients with the confidence and pride in the smile they desire. Contact us today on (02) 8806 0790 to book your first appointment!
References
Porcelain for veneers
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9893514/
Fracture strength of different veneers on polyetheretherketone (PEEK) frameworks in implant-supported single crowns
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35986930/