Veneers can change the shape, color and size of your front teeth. Before starting, most patients want to know what veneers cost and which type makes sense for them. This guide covers both.
Quick answer
Published U.S. estimates usually place porcelain veneers at about $900 to $2,500 per tooth. Composite veneers (bonding) usually cost less per tooth but do not last as long. Most smile makeovers involve several teeth, so the total depends on how many teeth are treated.
This is a general national estimate, not a quote from Sand Canyon Dental. We provide a written estimate after a cosmetic consultation.
Porcelain veneers vs. composite veneers
What they are. Porcelain: Thin ceramic shells made by a dental lab. Composite: Tooth-colored resin shaped directly on the tooth.
Visits. Porcelain: Usually two or more. Composite: Often one.
Stain resistance. Porcelain: High. Composite: Can stain over time.
Typical lifespan. Porcelain: About 10 to 15 years with good care. Composite: About 5 to 7 years.
Tooth preparation. Porcelain: A thin layer of enamel is usually removed. Composite: Little or no enamel removed.
Repairs. Porcelain: Usually replaced if damaged. Composite: Often repairable in the office.
Cost per tooth. Porcelain: Higher. Composite: Lower.
Porcelain usually costs more up front, but it often lasts longer. Composite costs less now, but it may need to be redone sooner. Over 10 or more years, the difference is often smaller than it first appears.
What affects the cost of veneers?
Number of teeth. One veneer can fix a single chipped tooth. A full smile makeover usually covers 6 to 10 upper teeth.
Material. Porcelain and lab-made veneers cost more than composite.
Preparation and temporaries. Temporary veneers and extra visits can add to the fee.
Other treatment first. Gum disease, cavities or bite problems need to be treated before veneers.
Whitening. Veneers do not whiten. Many patients whiten their teeth first so the veneers can be matched to a brighter shade.
Does insurance cover veneers?
Dental insurance usually treats veneers as cosmetic and does not cover them. If a veneer or crown is needed to repair a broken or damaged tooth, part of the cost may be covered. Our team can check your benefits and explain your payment options.
Are veneers right for you?
Veneers can help with:
Chipped or worn front teeth
Small gaps between teeth
Stains that do not respond to whitening
Teeth that are slightly uneven or misshapen
Veneers may not be the best first step if you have crooked teeth that need moving, active gum disease or heavy teeth grinding. In those cases, your dentist may suggest Invisalign, gum treatment or a night guard first, or a different option such as bonding or a crown.
What to expect
Cosmetic consultation. Your dentist examines your teeth and asks what you want to change.
Smile planning. You discuss shape, length and shade, and review your estimate.
Preparation. For porcelain, a thin layer of enamel is removed and impressions or scans are taken. Temporary veneers may be placed.
Placement. Your final veneers are checked for fit and color, then bonded to your teeth.
Follow-up. Your dentist checks your bite and how your gums are responding.
How to make veneers last
Brush twice a day and floss daily
Keep regular cleanings and exams
Avoid biting ice, pens or fingernails
Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
Frequently asked questions
Do veneers hurt?
Placing porcelain veneers usually involves local anesthesia during preparation. Most patients feel little discomfort afterward.
Can veneers be whitened?
No. Porcelain veneers keep their color, but whitening gel does not change them. Whiten your natural teeth first if you want a brighter shade.
How many veneers do I need?
It depends on your smile. Some patients need one or two. Others choose 6 to 10 so the upper teeth that show when smiling all match.
Are veneers permanent?
Porcelain veneers usually require removing a thin layer of enamel, so the tooth will always need a veneer or other covering. Composite veneers often need little or no enamel removed.
Talk to Sand Canyon Dental
Sand Canyon Dental has offered cosmetic dentistry in Irvine since 2008, including porcelain veneers, whitening and smile makeovers. We can review your goals and give you a written estimate.
Our porcelain veneers and crowns are usually made by Spectrum Killian Dental Lab. For whitening before veneers, we offer Zoom in-office whitening, Essential Whitening, custom take-home trays and the Zoom whitening pen.
Call (949) 727-9077 or request an appointment.