What is the true composite veneers cost?
If you are looking for a way to improve your smile or want to make your natural teeth better, veneers might be a good option for you.
This simple procedure has been around for decades, but new veneers are far more advanced and fit the needs of patients better.
So, if you want to know the composite veneers cost, what is the treatment time, and the entire process, keep on reading. We have all information in one place, and you will be able to make the best decision for your smile makeover.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are small porcelain shells that are placed on top of your natural teeth to improve the shape and color.
While there are other methods to repair imperfect teeth, such as Invisalign, different clear aligners, crowns, and tooth bonding, the veneers are an excellent option for people who want a quick and easy fix.
If you feel self-conscious about your teeth, veneers are a cost-effective solution for a natural appearance.
Composite Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers
Veneers have come a long way over the years, and patients can now choose between composite and porcelain veneers.
While the purpose of the two veneers might be the same, the material used and the end result are not.
Porcelain veneers
Custom-made thin shells created from porcelain, as the name suggests, and placed on top of your natural teeth.
A dentist would take the mold impression of your teeth and create a porcelain veneer in the dental laboratory. Patients always get temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being made.
While this type of veneer is more durable and offers better coverage, the price might be higher than composite veneers cost. It’s also a time-consuming process considering you need to visit the dental office multiple times.
Composite veneers
Unlike traditional porcelain veneers, composite veneers are made from a bonding agent or composite resin and placed over tooth imperfections.
This procedure is a fast and easy way to get your misshapen teeth or discolorations fixed.
Composite veneers cost less than traditional veneers but there are certain limitations to consider, such as translucent quality and stray edges.
Overall, with proper care, high-quality materials, and professionals by your side, you can be sure your bright smile will last a long time with composite veneers.
Types of Composite Veneers
Composite veneers come in two different types, and an experienced cosmetic dentist might recommend the best option for your dental issues.
Direct composite veneers
This type of veneer is made out of composite resin and sculpted directly to the problematic tooth. The preparation process is minimal, and the application of direct veneers is not invasive.
Your dentist will remove only a small amount of enamel, and the structure of your teeth will not be compromised.
On the other hand, this is the fastest way to get your teeth fixed and repair small chips, discoloration, and other minor issues.
Indirect composite veneers
Indirect composite veneer is also made from adhesive material like direct composite veneer but indirectly. This means your dentist will make the custom tooth-colored resin in the dental lab and provide you with temporary veneers in the meantime.
The main difference between direct and indirect composite veneers is not the material used but rather the application method. Veneers applied directly are generally less durable but faster to get.
So, depending on your oral health and uneven teeth, you might be a suitable candidate for direct or indirect veneers.
Composite Veneers Cost
Composite veneers cost anywhere from $400 to 1,500 per tooth. For comparison, a single porcelain veneer can cost up to $2.500, so the cost of composites is very reasonable.
While composite veneers cost less than traditional porcelain veneers, the price is still high for many people. The price of the composite veneers will depend on various factors, including the types of veneers, the dentists you have chosen, genetic defects, worn enamel, and how many veneers you need.
In addition, the price might be even higher if you require cosmetic dentistry, root canal treatment, or other treatments to achieve that tooth-like appearance.
While composite veneers are applied in thin layers, the materials used are high-quality and very expensive, thus influencing the final price of the procedure. The composite veneers cost might be reduced if your insurance covers the procedure, so make sure to ask your dentist about various payment options.
Composite Veneers Procedure
Now that we know the price of your smile makeover, you might be wondering about the procedure. Getting composite veneers is a simple procedure that most dentists are willing to do, so you can schedule an appointment right away and see the results in a few visits.
Considering there are different types of veneers, the process might be slightly different, but in general, these are the stages you can expect:
Consultation
Most dentists will schedule the initial consultation to meet the patient and talk about the potential solutions for their teeth. This is the perfect opportunity to ask all the questions and get a cost estimate.
Your dentist will suggest the best plan, and it’s up to you to decide if you want composite or porcelain veneers. Depending on your budget and decision, you can move on to the next step with your cosmetic dentistry of choice.
Assessment and exams
After the initial appointment, your dentist will take a closer look at the overall condition of your teeth and assess the situation better. The exams will help your doctor decide if you are a good candidate for traditional veneers or indirect veneers.
It’s also an excellent time to get any cavities treated and oral health issues addressed.
X-rays
In some cases, your dentist will need additional x-rays to assess the problematic situation better.
The x-ray image will show your jawline better and reveal any possible issues that can’t be seen during the exams. This step is not mandatory, but most dentists insist on getting the x-ray for the best and safest procedure and results.
Removing the tooth enamel
A small portion of tooth enamel has to be removed before applying direct veneers. While many people believe that only porcelain veneers require shaving off the teeth enamel, you will soon realize that even composite veneers need this type of treatment.
Shaving down the tooth enamel is entirely painless, and if done correctly, the teeth will not be compromised.
This is done to allow room for the composite resin shells placed over the natural tooth and avoid bulky-looking teeth.
Applying the veneers
Composite veneers are made on the spot, and your dentist will shape them to fit your teeth and jaw in the best way possible. Once you are satisfied with the shape, the composite material is cured with a high-intensity light.
The UV light will harden the resin, making it highly durable and look like your natural tooth. Don’t worry if your front teeth look blue initially; the ultraviolet light will make the veneers look white and shiny.
Unlike porcelain veneers, you will be able to leave the dentist’s office with a new and improved smile. That is one of the reasons why direct composite veneers are so popular and highly resistant.
FAQ
How long do composite veneers last?
Composite veneers can last anywhere from 5 to 7 years if you maintain your oral health and visit the dental office as scheduled. The thin layer of resin applied will last a long time as long as you follow the instructions.
It might be a good idea to avoid drinks like coffee and wine to reduce the staining of the veneers, and your dentist might suggest avoiding hard and crunchy foods.
Who can get veneers?
People who are looking for a safe and fast solution for minor problems with their teeth like discoloration, chipped teeth, or crooked teeth are considered the best candidates for the procedure.
Unlike porcelain veneers or crowns, you can get composite veneers per tooth and reduce the waiting period and the overall cost of your smile makeover.
Your dentists will have the best solutions for you based on the initial consultation and the assessment of your oral health.
Can composite resin veneers be removed?
Yes, composite veneers can easily be removed from the teeth and replaced with new porcelain veneers or composite veneers of your choice.
If you maintain your teeth with regular brushing and flossing, your veneers will last a long time. But, it’s good to know that the removal is possible and accessible in case you want to change your teeth once again.
What are the advantages of composite veneers?
Composite veneers are a fast way to get the perfect smile you deserve.
This procedure is also more affordable than porcelain veneers, so you might want to ask your dentist about all available options you have before you make the final decision.
If you choose direct composite veneers, you can leave the office with a bright new smile in a few days.
Final Thoughts
Composite veneers are a fantastic solution for people who want to improve the shape and the color of individual teeth and boost their confidence. Unlike porcelain veneers, the procedure is not only faster but also more affordable.
Composite veneers cost less than crowns and porcelain veneers, so you can stay within the budget and still have the results you are looking for.
If you want to repair minor issues with your teeth and get a glowing smile, schedule an appointment with your dentist now and enjoy the results almost instantly.