Natural veneers provide a healthy-looking smile. They are made of tooth-colored porcelain and can correct the appearance of teeth by concealing flaws and masking stains. They are thin wafers of porcelain that are bonded to the tooth’s surface. They address both cosmetic and functional concerns. For instance, they can conceal gaps between teeth as well as discoloration caused by years of consuming coffee or wine.
Veneers cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 per tooth. This price depends on the material they are made of and the dentist’s location. Porcelain and natural-colored composite resin are the most common choices. Porcelain is more expensive than composite resin. However, porcelain has a longer lifespan and a more natural appearance than composite resin, making it a popular option for many patients. Many patients also choose to combine their treatment with other cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening or Invisalign®. This can have a drastic impact on the overall price of treatment. However, some dentists offer special veneers that are even less expensive than traditional ones. These types of “no-prep” veneers don’t require a dentist to remove a layer of enamel from the tooth before bonding the veneer. Instead, they can be applied directly over the existing teeth. These no-prep veneers cost between $300 and $1,200 per tooth.
Insurance may cover part of the cost of a patient seeking treatment to address a functional issue like misalignment. However, most insurers won’t pay for purely cosmetic procedures. Some patients choose to pay for their veneers with a credit card, but keep in mind that interest rates can be high.
Patients undergoing treatment with veneers should be in good enough health to undergo oral surgery. This means that they shouldn’t have any untreated tooth decay or gum disease. It’s also important that they practice good dental hygiene habits at home to prevent future decay and gum disease.
Be sure to discuss all payment options with your dentist during your consultation. This will help you better understand which treatments are best for your needs and budget. Your dentist can also explain how much you can expect to pay out of pocket for each treatment option at your appointment.
On average, it takes about two weeks to get your final veneers from the lab. The procedure itself only takes around an hour per tooth to complete, so the rest of your time will be spent waiting for the specially crafted veneers to arrive. This part of the process isn’t something you have to do over and over again. Once your permanent veneers are made, they will be yours for life!
Don’t worry about looking like you have a mouth full of fake teeth – your veneers are created to match the exact shape and shade of your teeth, so they are almost impossible to distinguish from the real thing. The final result will be a beautiful smile with perfect-looking teeth.
Keep in mind that this is not a one-time procedure. If you want your new smile to last, you will need to keep up with your regular cleanings and preventive appointments. With proper care and hygiene, your natural veneers can last for over a decade or more before needing replacement. Be sure to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day to keep your natural teeth healthy, in addition to caring for your new veneer-covered teeth.
Visit Georgetown Cosmetic Dentistry at 2440 M Street, NW, Suite 328, Washington, DC 20037, or call (202) 785-4141 to learn more about ways to attain a whole new look.
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2440 M Street, NW, Suite 328,
Washington, DC, 20037
Phone: (202) 785-4141
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