Whether you want a Hollywood-level smile or you just want to improve your teeth’s appearance after sustaining damage or stains, dental veneers might be the solution. What are they? What does the process of getting veneers entail? How much do they cost? Read on to find out.
What are veneers?
According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, veneers are “thin pieces of porcelain used to recreate the natural look of teeth, while also providing strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel.” They are molded to the shape of your teeth and bonded to your original teeth’s surface. They are most commonly applied to correct minor misalignments and small gaps between teeth and to provide an aesthetically pleasing solution to discolored, uneven or chipped teeth.
Veneers or crowns?
Veneers differ from crowns in that they affect only the front of the tooth, whereas crowns encapsulate the entire tooth. Furthermore, veneers are most frequently used for cosmetic reasons, while dental crowns are designed to address more serious structural issues.
How are veneers applied?
If you decide to undergo the procedure, you will usually need one or two appointments, depending on whether the veneers are prefabricated or made in an outside laboratory. When it comes time to place the veneers, you will likely only need local anesthesia if you have very sensitive teeth. The dentist will clean the teeth and remove a very small amount of enamel (typically 1/2 to 1 millimeter) to ensure the veneer has room to fit into your mouth comfortably and naturally.
Next, an impression is taken of your teeth. If your veneers are being made at a laboratory, temporary veneers will be placed until the final set is delivered. They will be removed at your next visit. The dentist will apply a dental adhesive to hold the new veneers in place and cure them under a special light for 60 seconds. The dentist will then check that the veneers are securely attached and remove any excess adhesive.
Your dentist might also schedule another appointment to check your veneers for fit, adhesion and comfort. After that, you can care for your veneers like you care for your regular teeth, by brushing and flossing regularly and limiting dark drinks like coffee and red wine. Veneers will need to be replaced eventually, but with proper care, they should last between 10 and 20 years.
How do you recover after getting veneers?
Because veneers don’t require the extensive shaping and filing of crowns, the recovery process is minimal. You might experience temporary tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures due to the removal of enamel, but this should resolve itself in a few days. Your dentist might recommend that you stick to soft foods and gradually work up to harder ones that require more chewing, since there might be an adjustment period.
How much do veneers cost?
Like most dental procedures, veneers are not cheap. Estimates vary widely depending on how many teeth are involved, how complex your case is, and where in the country the procedure is taking place, among other factors. Generally, single veneers can range from $800 to $2,000 or more per tooth, though some dentists prefer to set fees on a case-by-case basis. Moreover, most insurance companies won’t cover all or any of the cost, as veneers are usually considered an elective cosmetic procedure.
For these reasons, whether or not you have dental insurance, you’ll probably need a supplemental plan to help pay. DentalSave offers highly affordable dental plans for individuals, couples and families that can save you anywhere between 20 and 50 percent on every dental visit at more than 40,000 participating locations nationwide. When applied toward veneers, this can result in a 25 percent discount for an average saving of $536 per tooth. DentalSave’s plans can also be used on other cosmetic dentistry procedures, braces and Invisalign. Sign up today and begin saving immediately.
