How Much Do Veneers Cost?

Are you in the market for veneers to take your smile from OK to practically perfect? You’re probably wondering how much this type of cosmetic dental makeover will cost. Prices per veneer typically range from $1,000-$1,400. But some dentists charge much more or much less. Here’s a look at the various factors that impact veneer pricing and what you can expect to pay.

Who’s Your Dentist?

Porcelain veneers may seem like an easy fix for flawed teeth. But the fact is that there’s a lot of skill involved in creating an ideal outcome. The best cosmetic dentists and prosthodontists are experienced technicians and true artists. They must be able to:

• Determine the best type of veneers for your mouth (this can affect the final look and how comfortable your veneers feel)
• Remove just the right amount of enamel (too little means the veneers will look and feel bulky, too much means your teeth may be very sensitive afterward)
• Create a symmetrical smile with each tooth the right size and shape for a natural appearance that’s uniquely suited to your facial structure and personal preferences (you don’t want a “cookie cutter” smile that looks fake)
• Ensure the veneers are fabricated by a master ceramist at a top-quality dental lab (this will affect how realistic your veneers look)
• Install, shape and polish the veneers for an even fit along the gum line and a brilliant final appearance (any errors during this stage can lead to discomfort, poor aesthetic outcome or early veneer failure)

Simply put, you can expect to pay more for veneers from a dentist who is at the top of his profession.

Time and Material Considerations

Different brands and materials make some veneers cost less than others. This may or may not affect the price your dentist decides to charge for your veneers. The exception is resin composite. This tooth-colored bonding material is layered directly onto your teeth in a single in-office visit with no fabrication costs. You can expect to pay just a few hundred dollars per tooth for this type of veneer. It won’t last as long or look as realistic as porcelain, but affordability makes it an attractive option for many patients.

With porcelain veneers, the price usually goes down for each additional veneer you have done. That’s because it takes your dentist less time to treat one patient with a full set of veneers than to treat 12 different patients with one veneer apiece. They are dealing with just one consultation, preparation session and fitting session. Time is also a factor that can affect pricing when it comes to traditional versus “prepless” veneers. The less preparation your teeth require, the fewer labor hours your dentist will need to spend on your procedure. You may also be able to forgo anesthetic with prepless veneers, which can save a little more money.

More Veeners Cost Considerations

Here are a few more factors that may impact the cost of porcelain veneers:

• Your location. Each dentist sets her own rate schedule. However, dental work tends to be more expensive in some parts of the country than others based on the local cost of living, competition for patients, etc.
• The lab that fabricates your veneers. Some dentists have their own on-site lab. However, most send the mold of their patient’s teeth to another location (which can be anywhere in the country). Ceramists can set their own prices based on their reputation for quality work. These costs are passed on to you.
• The dentist’s equipment. Dentists who have invested in new technology for 3D visualization of your veneers may charge more. They need to recoup the cost of their equipment. However, you may be more satisfied if the computerized smile makeover process gives you a highly accurate idea of what your finished veneers will look like.
• The atmosphere. Veneers are an elective dental treatment, which means patients are choosing it rather than seeking it out of necessity. Some cosmetic dentists attract patients by making the procedure as pleasant as possible. They accomplish this by creating a spa-like ambiance complete with many different comforts and perks. If you like to be pampered during your dental visits, you can expect to pay a premium for this privilege.