What Factors Affect the Cost of Veneers in San Diego?

In cosmetic dentistry, veneers are one of the most transformative cosmetic dentistry treatments.  Not only do dental veneers have the power to provide a total smile makeover, but they can also address several dental issues.

This post will discuss what affects the price of veneers in San Diego, as well as some of the types of veneers cosmetic dentists offer.

How much do dental veneers cost in San Diego?

A hand holding a 1 dollar bill

In San Diego, veneers can range anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. The most expensive are porcelain dental veneers due to the high-quality material and their longer lifespan when compared to composite resin veneers. However, if you require more extensive preparation or treatment, such as gum contouring or issues related to tooth decay or gum disease, the cost will likely be higher.

What factors determine the cost of dental veneers?

The overall cost of dental veneers depends on several factors, such as:

How many veneers do people typically get?

A woman doing matching for the veneers she wants to get

On average, most people get between 6 to 10 veneers, but the number can range from just one tooth to a full set of veneers, but also depends on the size and shape of the existing natural teeth, the patient's facial features, dental concerns, and the desired outcome.

What are the different types of veneers?

Lumineer Veneers

Different types of veneers are made using a variety of materials.  Dental veneer options include:

  • E-max Veneers: These are thin, translucent dental veneers made of a strong ceramic material called lithium disilicate. While they are long-lasting, they can be costly, ranging from $300 to $500 per tooth.
  • Zirconium Veneers: Made from a durable and strong ceramic material, zirconium veneers are a popular alternative to traditional porcelain veneers due to their strength, longevity, and cost; on average, they cost about $1,400 per tooth.
  • Palatal Porcelain Veneers: Palatal veneers are thin shells made of porcelain, custom-made to fit the back surface of teeth facing the tongue. This is a specialized procedure that requires an experienced dentist; it can cost up to $1,200 per tooth.
  • Porcelain Veneers: Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of medical-grade ceramic that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance and cost roughly $2,000 per tooth.
  • Lumineer Veneers: Lumineers are a type of non-prep veneer made of a thin layer of porcelain that is more translucent than traditional porcelain veneers. These are popular options for those seeking to improve their teeth's appearance with minimally invasive and reversible treatment. Lumineers typically range in cost from $800 to $2000 per tooth.
  • Composite Resin Veneers: This type of dental veneer is made from a tooth-colored composite resin material that is applied to the front surface of the existing teeth. It is more affordable than porcelain veneers, but may not be as durable or long-lasting. Composite veneers typically cost between $250 and $1,500 per tooth.

Is sedation recommended for dental veneer treatment?

A woman undergoing Sedation
  • Sedation: The use of sedation during veneer placement is typically determined on a case-by-case basis and treatment plan.  The cost of sedation will depend on the type used and whether multiple appointments are needed. Sedation costs can run anywhere from $25 to $1,000.

What other dental treatments affect the cost of cosmetic dental veneers?

Teeth whitening cosmetic procedure

Combining other cosmetic procedures with dental veneers is a common practice in cosmetic dentistry, and includes:

  1. Teeth whitening:  Whitening is a popular cosmetic treatment to correct tooth discoloration and can be performed before getting veneers to ensure that the veneers match the surrounding teeth. The average cost is $375.00.
  2. Orthodontic treatments: In some cases, there may be a need to correct misalignments or spacing issues to ensure a more even and improved smile. The cost can range from $2,000 to $7,000.
  3. Gum contouring:   Reshapes and sculpts the gums around the veneers, creating a more aesthetic gum line and minimizing cosmetic flaws.  Costs range from $50 to $350 per tooth.
  4. Dental bonding:  Corrects minor cosmetic issues that cannot be corrected with veneers alone and can cost between $300 to $600.
  5. Dental implants:  Dental implants may be used to replace missing teeth, improve tooth structure, and provide a more complete, smile.  A single implant can cost $1,500 to $5,000, whereas a full implant ranges anywhere from $3,000 to $30,000.

Your cosmetic dentist may recommend one or more additional treatments to help achieve optimal dental care and the best possible results.

What is the cost of veneers per tooth in San Diego?

As we covered in more detail above, the veneer cost per tooth depends on the type of veneer selected.  For example, porcelain veneers in San Diego can range from $925 to $2,500 per tooth.  Whereas composite resin veneers range in price from $250 to $1,500 per tooth.

How much does a top set of veneers cost in San Diego?

A full top set of veneers involves placing veneers on 6 to 8 teeth.  Based on the cost per tooth rate in San Diego, a top set of veneers can range anywhere from $5,500 up to $20,000 for porcelain veneers.  Whereas composite veneers would range between $1,500 to $12,000.

Are dental veneers covered by insurance?

Dental insurance

Standard dental insurance policies will typically not cover the costs of cosmetic dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers. Keep in mind that, if a veneer is necessary due to a dental issue, such as broken teeth or an affected tooth from decay or damage, some insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost.

Always check with your dental insurance provider to understand policy coverage.  Also, speak with your dental practice about financing options or payment plans for cosmetic procedures.  Some dental clinics may offer a discount for paying in cash or for paying the entire cost of the veneers upfront.

Are dental veneers a good investment?

Dental veneers can be a good investment, depending on individual needs and goals. Experienced, top-veneers dentists can help determine what type of veneers will offer the best cosmetic improvement, durability, customization, cost, and maintenance. Overall, if you are looking for a long-lasting solution, custom veneers are an excellent investment for a healthy, new smile.

What are the downsides to veneers?

A woman is experiencing tooth sensitivity while drinking ice water

While dental veneers can provide many benefits, there are some downsides to consider, such as:

  • Cost: Veneers can be an expensive cosmetic procedure and may not be covered by dental insurance.
  • Permanent Veneers:  Removing enamel from the surface of your teeth is common in permanent veneers, requiring veneers or other dental restoration for life.
  • Sensitivity:  Some experience increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures.
  • Maintenance:  Veneers require regular at-home dental care, as well as regular dental check-ups to ensure they remain in good condition.
  • Potential for damage:  Veneers can be damaged by excessive force or trauma, such as teeth grinding or biting down on hard objects.
  • Color matching:  While veneers can be customized to match the color of your natural tooth enamel, they may not be an exact match, and some types may stain over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of veneers lasts the longest?

Porcelain veneers are generally considered to be the most durable and long-lasting type of tooth restoration in cosmetic dentistry, and they can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years with proper care and maintenance.

Quality, good oral hygiene, proper fit, and placement, as well as lifestyle factors, all play a role in determining the longevity of your veneers and can help determine if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers.

Does porcelain veneer stain?

One of the most common questions is, "Do porcelain veneers stain?" One of the benefits of placing porcelain veneers is that they are stain-resistant. Porcelain is non-porous, so foods that typically result in stained teeth, such as coffee or red wine, typically cannot penetrate the veneers.

Are porcelain crowns the same as porcelain veneers?

An image of dental crowns

No, porcelain veneers are bonded to the front surface of the teeth, whereas a dental crown is affixed and covers the entire tooth. Crowns are generally thicker and more permanent but may be less aesthetically pleasing than veneers.

Can you get veneers on top teeth only?

Yes, many people choose to get veneers on only the front of their top teeth to improve the appearance of their smile. However, if there is significant tooth discoloration, misalignment, or other dental health issues with your bottom teeth, you may want to consider getting veneers on both your top and bottom teeth to achieve a more natural and aesthetically pleasing result.

What dental treatments are less expensive than veneers?

If you are seeking less expensive options, several alternatives can offer cosmetic improvement, including teeth whitening, dental bonding, dental crowns, orthodontics, or enamel shaping.  Keep in mind that these options may not provide the same long-lasting results as veneers.

Conclusion

If you are considering new dental veneers, our top veneers dentists at Main Street Dental in Vista offer the expertise and experience you need when choosing which cosmetic procedure is right for you.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with some of San Diego's leading cosmetic dentists and begin your journey to healthy teeth and a brighter smile.