Porcelain veneers are a popular dental treatment option for those looking to reform their smile. While porcelain veneers can deliver dramatic and lasting results, it’s important to consider if the cost is worth the potential benefits in your specific situation. 

In this article, we examine the details of what porcelain veneers are and how they can improve teeth appearance and boost self-confidence. We will also dive into potential drawbacks and costs to determine if they’re the right investment for you. 

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers are coverings made from porcelain that fit over the front of your teeth. These thin, medical-grade ceramic shells bond to the front surfaces of your teeth, helping correct a variety of aesthetic concerns, such as discoloration, chips, gaps, stains, misshapen teeth, or minor misalignment. 

Porcelain veneers are custom-made for each guest, ensuring that they are fitted to match their specific shade and fit. Before veneers are installed, a dentist removes a small amount of enamel to help the veneers stay in place. 

The Cost Factors Involved with Porcelain Veneers

While porcelain veneers are worth the investment for many people, you should be aware of the costs involved before committing. Here are some factors that determine the level of investment in a new set of porcelain veneers. 

Material and Manufacturing

While some veneers are made from other materials like composite resin, porcelain veneers better replicate natural tooth translucency and durability. While this can produce better results, it can also contribute to higher costs. Lab craftsmanship of porcelain veneers that fit your specific aesthetic needs can also drive up expenses. 

Dentist’s Expertise and Location

Highly skilled and experienced dentists may charge more than less experienced professionals when installing porcelain veneers. While the extra cost may be frustrating, it can be worth the investment to work with a seasoned professional. 

Your geographic location can also play a role in the cost of your porcelain veneers. Regional cost-of-living differences can increase dental costs in high-priced areas, including veneers. 

Number of Teeth Treated

While some guests opt for a single veneer, others may choose to address a large area or “smile zone” of six to eight teeth. The more veneers you need, the higher the cost will be. However, adding more veneers may lead to more uniform results and leave you feeling better overall about your smile. Consult with your dentist to see how many and which veneers they recommend.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers may have a high initial cost, but they provide numerous benefits that can be life-altering for many guests. Here are some of the biggest benefits of installing porcelain veneers. 

Immediate, Dramatic Results

Porcelain veneers can transform your smile’s color, shape, and alignment with just a couple of visits to a dentist. One of the primary benefits of veneers is that they can fix multiple aesthetic issues at once, instead of needing multiple dental procedures. Veneers also blend in with your natural teeth, so there is no awkward in-between period. Simply put, porcelain veneers offer a dramatic, instant smile makeover.

Durability and Longevity of Veneers

Another excellent thing about porcelain veneers is that they are long-lasting. Veneers regularly last at least 10-15 years or more with proper care. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, 93.5% of veneers lasted at least 10 years, while 82.9% lasted for at least 20 years.

Veneers are also stain-resistant, making them a more long-last option than composite alternatives. 

Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem

Because veneers can result in such a dramatic smile makeover, it can lead to a significant boost in self-esteem and confidence. 

Guests who have porcelain veneers installed often reported heightened confidence in both social and professional settings. The psychological boost that comes from porcelain veneers can help offset the stress of the financial commitment. 

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Although porcelain veneers can be transformative for many guests, there are also some potential drawbacks you should be aware of before deciding to move forward.

Irreversible Procedure

Porcelain veneers require a small portion of enamel to be removed, making the process non-reversible. Although most guests are satisfied with their results, it’s important to note that the only changes that can be made are replacing or adjusting the veneers. 

Possible Sensitivity

Some guests may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold after placement of the porcelain veneers. Although this typically goes away after a few days or weeks, it can be an inconvenience. Careful bonding techniques, avoiding extreme temperatures, and using desensitizing toothpaste are ways you can minimize your discomfort. 

Not a Fix for Major Issues

Although porcelain veneers can transform your smile, it’s important to note that they are not a recommended fix for major oral health issues. Guests experiencing severe misalignment or tooth decay may require more complex orthodontics or restorative procedures first before having veneers installed. 

Veneers should be viewed primarily as a cosmetic enhancement, and not a replacement for needed dental work to fix larger issues. 

Weighing the Cost-Benefit Ratio

The decision you’ll be faced with when deciding on porcelain veneers is whether the high initial cost will be worth the long-term benefit to your oral health and self-esteem.

• Financial Investment vs. Longevity: Porcelain veneers routinely carry a high up-front cost but can last for years, or even decades. You may also be able to spread out the payments through financing options. Contact your local Ideal Dental location to learn about potential flexible payment options. 
• Aesthetic and Emotional Payoff: Determining whether porcelain veneers are worth it will depend on the person. Consider how much a new smile will improve your self-esteem or career prospects. Think about your day-to-day life experience and if extra confidence in daily interactions and during important events can offset the stress of a high initial cost. 
• Budgeting and Other Expenses: While porcelain veneers can be transformational, they also may not be at the top of the list of health-related expenses. Before committing to porcelain veneers consider any other large-scale oral health or other medical treatments you may be considering, and rank them in terms of importance and how much they will impact your day-to-day life. 
• Maintenance and Future Upkeep: Veneer maintenance is minimal, although it’s important to keep up with proper oral hygiene, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Occasional touch-ups or replacements of your veneers may also be necessary over time. 

Veneer Alternatives to Consider

If you’re not ready to commit to porcelain veneers, there are other dental options to consider that can also improve oral cosmetics. 

• Teeth Whitening: In-office teeth-whitening or take-home whitening trays are effective for treating stains and discoloration, and are less expensive than veneers. However, teeth whitening won’t help with fixing shape or alignment issues with your smile. 
• Orthodontic Treatments: Orthodontic treatments such as braces or aligners can correct alignment issues without removing enamel, making the changes less permanent. However, these treatments can be lengthy and typically require a longer commitment and more visits to a dental professional. 
• Composite Bonding: Composite bonding veneers have a cheaper upfront cost than porcelain veneers, but are less durable and don’t last as long. These veneers are ideal for filling small chips or minor gaps but are typically not the best option for a full-smile restoration. 

Porcelain Veneer Consultations at Your Local Ideal Dental

Porcelain veneers offer a transformative and long-lasting smile enhancement, making them a worthwhile investment for many. While high costs and the irreversible nature of the procedure are worth considering, porcelain veneers’ ability to address a variety of cosmetic concerns and their long-lasting durability can help offset these concerns.

If you’re considering porcelain veneers, contact your local Ideal Dental office today to schedule a consultation and discuss if veneers are the right option for you.