blog banner

Blog/News

POSTED IN:
veneers
by Dental Design, on 6th June 2024 | Comments Off on Are Porcelain Veneers Worth the Cost?
Shot of an unrecognisable woman having her teeth capped at the dentist

Everyone wants a smile they can feel confident about.

Having teeth that are discoloured, misshapen, or slightly crooked can impact your self-esteem and make you hesitate to show your smile. Luckily, Porcelain veneers have become an increasingly popular solution for transforming your teeth and giving you that bright, even, Hollywood-esque smile.

As discussed in our previous blog, porcelain veneers are carefully crafted thin, high-quality porcelain shells bonded to the front of your teeth. An intricate process requires great skill!

But are these smile makeovers worth the investment?

In this blog, we’ll examine the pros, cons, and cost considerations of porcelain veneers to help you decide if they’re the right choice for you. Let’s get started.

Understanding Porcelain Veneer Costs:

The cost of getting porcelain veneers can vary quite substantially depending on several key factors. First and foremost, the number of teeth that need to have the procedure will have a big impact on the overall price tag. Having porcelain veneers applied to just your front top and bottom teeth will cost significantly less than pursuing a full “smile makeover”.

Another major consideration is geographic location when it comes to porcelain veneers. Like many cosmetic treatments, veneers tend to be more expensive in major cities and metropolitan areas where dentists’ overhead costs are higher. Not only this but the expertise and reputation of the cosmetic dentist you choose can also drive up fees.

Finally, the specific porcelain veneer material and quality play a role. Higher-end porcelain veneers from premium dental labs understandably command higher prices than basic porcelain veneer options. Some dentists may also utilise advanced techniques like minimally-invasive “no-prep” porcelain veneers, which can increase costs. While porcelain veneers from a quality provider aren’t cheap, many people feel the confidence boost is well worth the investment.

Complexity of the Case

The complexity of your specific case can also impact the overall cost of getting porcelain veneers. For instance, if you have an especially wide smile that exposes more of your teeth than is typical, you may need a larger number of porcelain veneers to create a cohesive look.

Conversely, those with smaller mouths and smiles that don’t show as many teeth may only require porcelain veneers on the front teeth that are visible when smiling.

It’s important to note that the quoted cost for the porcelain veneers themselves does not cover any potential additional services required during the treatment process. For example, if your dentist needs to capture an x-ray of your mouth, you’ll likely pay an extra fee for this.

More complex dental cases tend to incur higher costs overall. Situations involving multiple porcelain veneers across many teeth, extensive reshaping requirements, or the need to address underlying dental issues first are inherently more intricate.

These complicated cases demand more time, expertise and specialised materials from the cosmetic dentist.

While you can expect to pay more for a complex porcelain veneer case, you are investing in a skilled provider’s ability to navigate difficulties and deliver an optimal, transformative smile enhancement.

The Value Beyond the Price Tag:

While the upfront cost of porcelain veneers can seem steep, it’s important to consider their long-term value and benefits!

Porcelain veneers are incredibly durable compared to less expensive options like composite bonding. With proper care, high-quality porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or even longer before requiring replacement.

Porcelain veneers are also highly stain resistant due to their non-porous surface. Unlike natural tooth enamel which can become discoloured over time, porcelain veneers maintain their bright, uniform shade much more effectively with no risk of staining from foods, drinks or lifestyle habits like smoking.

Beyond the functional advantages, one of the most significant benefits of porcelain veneers is the confidence boost and improved quality of life they provide. Having a flawless smile can positively impact social interactions, relationships and even professional opportunities where confidence and a great first impression are key.

Many people even report feeling more outgoing and living with greater self-assurance after their smile makeover!

For those dealing with issues like cracked, chipped, or misshapen teeth, porcelain veneers can help reduce or even eliminate the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures down the road. Rather than eventually requiring crowns to restore damaged teeth, porcelain veneers provide a complete visual overhaul and strengthen the underlying tooth structure as well.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Alternatives:

While more affordable options like teeth whitening and composite bonding exist, porcelain veneers offer distinct advantages:

Longevity:

  • Porcelain is extremely durable and stain-resistant, crafted to withstand daily life.
  • Porcelain veneers can last over 15 years with proper care, making them a wise investment.
  • Composite bonding requires much more frequent replacement, often needing to be redone every 5-7 years.

Aesthetics:

  • Porcelain reflects light naturally for a seamless, realistic appearance that blends in with surrounding teeth.
  • Remains bright and colour-stable over time, resisting stains from food, drinks, and lifestyle habits.
  • Composite bonding is more prone to staining, chipping, and taking on an artificial look as it wears.

Overall Value:

  • The initial investment in veneers pays off through their exceptional longevity and resilience.
  • Avoids the recurring costs of continually replacing composite bonding every few years.
  • Delivers permanent, picture-perfect results that look natural and require minimal maintenance.

While whitening and bonding provide a temporary cosmetic boost, porcelain veneers are the superior long-term solution for a flawless, low-maintenance smile that elevates your confidence for over a decade.

Making the Decision:

Deciding to invest in porcelain veneers is a major choice, but one that can truly transform your smile and boost your confidence for years to come. As with any significant purchase, it’s wise to plan ahead and prepare your budget accordingly.

Do your research upfront on the different materials and options available. While porcelain veneers represent a higher initial cost compared to composite resin bonding, their superior longevity and stain resistance often make them the better value in the long term.

Confirm pricing details with your dentist well in advance of treatment. Get a clear breakdown of the full fees involved, as well as enquire about any available payment plans that could help make veneers more financially accessible by spreading out the cost over time.

Most importantly, consult with an experienced, qualified cosmetic dentist about your specific needs and smile goals. An honest professional can evaluate your dental situation, advise you on the most suitable veneer approach, and lay out all your treatment and financing options transparently.

The confidence boost you’ll feel make this an investment worth every penny. Get in touch with our team at M20 Dental today and start your porcelain veneer journey.

View all of our treatments View treatments

Get In Touch Today

0161 445 3344 info@m20dental.co.uk 152 Burton Road, Didsbury, Manchester, M20 1LH

If you have any dental questions or queries please feel free to get in touch. We try our hardest to get back to you as soon as possible. If you would prefer, please give us a call on 161 445 3344.

  • I’d like to be informed of exclusive offers and other practice information YES
  • *By clicking ‘send’ you are consenting to us replying, and storing your details. (see our privacy policy).