What is the Cost of a Perfect Smile?
Here are the Key Factors Influencing the Price of Porcelain Veneers
What is the price of porcelain veneers? Why pay more when you can get the same thing done at another office (or another country) for cheaper? Is there really that big of a difference between veneers from office to office? These are questions that I answer daily in my cosmetic dental office in downtown Chicago. A gorgeous smile is not just a sign of beauty and confidence; it’s also a sight of good oral health and care for your body. In the journey for the perfect smile, many of our guests turn to porcelain veneers. They are the magic wand that transforms a regular smile (you know the kind- a bit dull, a little worn down), into a radiant one! And like most cosmetic enhancements, they come at a cost, and similarly to plastic surgery, the cost is highly variable. Where we are located in Chicago, prices range from $1000-$4000 per tooth! The average cost in our area is $2100 per tooth. With such a wide range in investment, understanding the factors that affect the price of porcelain veneers is crucial when facing the decision of where to get your veneers done.
1. Quality Veneers is Key
Just like choosing the highest quality parts to repair your car, the quality of the porcelain used in veneers plays a pivotal role in determining their cost. High-quality porcelain will increase the strength, stain resistance, and give them a naturally translucent appearance that mimics the translucency of natural teeth. The most expensive porcelains are hand-layered using multiple shades and translucencies to mimic natural teeth the most closely. Cheaper porcelains are milled out of a solid block and are one shade throughout. They tend to appear less natural and are most noticeable to the average person. Investing in the best materials ensures a radiant smile that stands the test of time, making it a worthwhile consideration when evaluating the overall cost.
2. Customization and Artistry:
Porcelain veneers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Much like a bespoke suit tailored to fit perfectly, customization is key when it comes to crafting veneers that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth. The artistry and expertise of the cosmetic dentist in charge of your smile transformation significantly impact the cost. Dr. Brittany meticulously designs every case herself. When she places temporary veneers, she tweaks them and makes sure everything fits with the smile line, facial harmony, and her guests’ speech is not affected. Because the temporary veneers are just plastic, she is able to make any changes she needs to, then takes photos and molds of her design to send to the porcelain artist to copy. An experienced cosmetic dentist will meticulously design each veneer to fit harmoniously with your face shape, lip structure, and even your skin undertones to ensure perfectly natural-looking result.
3. Quantity:
The number of veneers needed to achieve your goals will influence the overall cost of the treatment. Veneers are typically charged per tooth. Depending on where your smile currently stands and where you want to end up, the price per tooth may be different. Some people may only require veneers for specific teeth that are discolored or damaged, while others may opt for a complete smile makeover. As you can imagine, a single veneer to match existing teeth with intricate colorations usually takes multiple visits and will cost more per tooth. A complete smile makeover may involve doing 28 teeth and the overall cost will certainly be higher though the per tooth cost may be lower.
4. Location, Location, Location:
Much like real estate, the cost of dental services varies depending on the geographic location. Factors such as the cost of living, demand for cosmetic dentistry, and the expertise of local practitioners contribute to these regional variations. Urban centers or areas with a high cost of living may have higher prices for dental procedures, including porcelain veneers, compared to more rural or economically moderate regions.
5. Add-ons/ Prep work
Achieving the smile of your dreams may involve more than just porcelain veneers. Additional dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, gum contouring, or invisalign, can be very important to creating the result you want. Doing these preparatory procedures may mean that you do not need to shave your teeth, or that your smile can be achieved by doing less teeth. These additional treatments contribute to the overall cost, and they ensure that every aspect of your smile is considered and addressed. Think of it as the preparatory work for an event that makes sure things go smoothly and every potential hiccup is accounted for.
6. Dentist’s Expertise and Reputation:
The skill and reputation of the cosmetic dentist performing the procedure also play a role in the cost of porcelain veneers. Experienced and highly regarded practitioners may charge higher fees due to their expertise and the trust they have earned in the field. It’s essential to choose a dentist with a proven track record to ensure the best possible outcome for your smile makeover.
In the pursuit of a radiant smile, understanding the factors that influence the cost of porcelain veneers is crucial. Quality materials, customization, geographic location, additional procedures, and the expertise of the cosmetic dentist all contribute to the overall expense. While the cost may seem significant, it’s essential to view it as an investment in confidence, self-esteem, and a lifelong asset – a perfect smile that speaks volumes without uttering a word. So, if you’re ready to embark on the journey to a dazzling smile, consider these factors and make an informed decision that will leave you beaming with confidence.
Questions about the veneer process? Head over to our porcelain veneer info page here!