Very few people have a naturally symmetric smile that glows. For most of us, there are a few things about the appearance of our teeth we’d like to change. If you’re one of those people, veneers might be the answer for you. Veneers are a quick and easy fix for many cosmetic dental problems, and depending on the material used, they can be quite affordable. Here’s what you should expect composite veneers to cost you.
What do different veneers cost?
Not all veneers are the same, and so all veneers are not the same price. When shopping for veneers, you’re likely to get quotes that vary—sometimes by as much as a few hundred dollars per tooth. The trick in discerning the difference is to know exactly what you’re paying for.
The material a veneer is made from will have the biggest influence on the cost. Veneers are traditionally made from either porcelain or composite resin. Composite veneers cost much less than porcelain veneers, and though the prices vary widely, both options offer a unique set of benefits. What you end up choosing will depend on what you value.
So, how much do veneers cost, exactly? On average porcelain veneers range from $1000–$3000 per tooth whereas composite veneers cost between $800–$950 per tooth. You also have the option of getting special veneers called Lumineers that are usually $800–$2000 per tooth.
How long do veneers last?
If you take proper care of your veneers, they can last many, many years. But not all veneers are the same. Generally speaking, porcelain veneers and Lumineers have a much longer life expectancy than composite resin veneers.
It’s common for porcelain veneers to last between 10 and 15 years. Sometimes, porcelain veneers can last even longer than that. Most dentists would agree that porcelain veneers should last at least 5 years if you take proper care of them. But it’s safe to expect your porcelain veneers to last at least ten years. Still don’t eat hard candy and try not to grind your teeth.
Composite resin veneers stain more easily and aren’t typically as long-lasting as their porcelain counterpart, however, you should still expect your composite veneers to last at least two years if taken care of properly, and if you’re lucky, they can even last up to five years.
The benefit of composite resin veneers is that they’re easier and cheaper to repair or replace if anything goes wrong, and they’re better for your teeth as your dentist has to remove less enamel when placing or repairing them than if you chose to go with porcelain.
How do I choose between composite or porcelain?
With the differences in price, aesthetics, and tooth health, it can be tricky to know which type of veneer is best for you. To choose the best veneers for you, it’s always best to talk through your questions with a dentist—or even better, a prosthodontist.
Prosthodontists have three additional years of education over a family dentist, and they are experts when it comes to forming and placing veneers, bridges, crowns, and implants.
Prosthodontists have seen it all, and they can use their expertise to help you decide what’s the right decision for you. They also have a proven track record of success when it comes to these types of procedures, which unfortunately isn’t always the case. You don’t want your family doctor performing open heart surgery on you, so you shouldn’t have your dentist place your veneers or implants.
Composite resin veneers can be a good choice if you need a quick fix and you aren’t ready to make long-term decisions about your oral health. It’s a smaller up-front investment and the procedure is easier to reverse.
Because your dentist will have to remove a larger amount of enamel to place porcelain veneers, the procedure isn’t as easily reversible, and you’ll most likely have to replace any break with entirely new veneers. Talk to your dentist or prosthodontist and let them know what you’re looking for. This conversation may even help you put into words what it is that you need.
Talk to us about composite veneers
Whoever you go to should understand that this is an important decision for you, and they should offer a free consultation. Don’t go anywhere where they want to rush past your questions and where you can’t meet the person first.
At Dr. Stone’s practice, we offer complimentary consultations to new and prospective patients. We believe it’s important to sit across the table from the people you’re going to work with in life. Dr. Stone has been practicing for almost 40 years now, and he would love to help you decide what’s right for you. Schedule your appointment today!
