If you’re looking for a smile makeover, or you’ve damaged a tooth, dental veneers can give your teeth a new look.
Here are some details to help you understand this simple, smile-enhancing treatment.
Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are attached to the front and side surfaces of teeth. Typically used on the upper row, veneers can be a long-term solution to cosmetic concerns including crooked, discolored or smaller-than-average teeth. Veneers can also help repair damage, such as broken or
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Dental veneers are typically made from porcelain or composite resin. Although both types serve the same purpose, they’re different in many ways. Here’s a list of their differences to help you compare:
Porcelain | Composite |
|---|---|
made of ceramic porcelain | made of tooth-colored filling material |
more expensive | less expensive |
usually requires enamel removal | may not require enamel removal |
2–3 appointments | usually 1 appointment |
last around 20 years | last around 5 years |
will not stain | may stain over time |
less likely to chip or fracture | more likely to chip or fracture |
more difficult to fix | easier to fix |
Like many dental procedures, there isn’t 1 set price for veneers. The cost can depend on many factors, such as:
Here are some cost estimates of a single tooth veneer:2
Veneer type | Average cost | Cost range |
|---|---|---|
Resin, chairside (composite veneers) | $800 | $500–$1,400 |
Resin, laboratory (composite veneers) | $1,100 | $800–$2,300 |
Porcelain | $1,500 | $900–$2,500 |
Lumineers | $1,800 | $800–$2,000 |
Getting veneers is often considered a cosmetic procedure. Most dental insurance providers won’t cover the cost of veneers unless they’re medically necessary (e.g., tooth damaged in an accident). It’s also important to note there may be other costs involved, including a dental exam,
To begin, the dentist will likely take
First, the dentist will reshape the surface of each tooth receiving a veneer. The amount of enamel taken away will be nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer.* Next, each tooth will be cleaned, polished and etched. Etching roughens the tooth and can help create a stronger bonding process.
For porcelain veneers, the dentist will match the fit and color before permanently cementing it to the tooth. Composite veneers are also matched for fit and color and typically custom sculpted on the tooth. To help the cement or composite dry, the dentist may use a special light. The last steps include removing excess cement, making sure your bite is correct and performing a final polish.
*No-prep veneers may only require minimal tooth preparation. Instead of removing layers of tooth beneath the enamel, only enamel will be removed.3
Once the procedure is complete, a follow-up appointment will likely be scheduled. This allows the dentist to check your gums for irritation and make sure the veneers are in place. It also gives you a chance to talk about any discomfort or other symptoms.1
Other than that, dental veneers don’t require special care. Good oral hygiene such as brushing, flossing and mouthwash can benefit veneers the same as real teeth.
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The main difference is that a veneer only covers the front of a tooth and a
Properly installed veneers should not damage your natural teeth. However, it’s important to brush, floss and get regular cleanings to avoid tooth decay underneath the veneers.
Dental bonding typically costs less than veneers and is a faster procedure. Veneers cost more, but the long-lasting durability and beauty can make them a better value.
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