Dental veneers are a solution worth seeking if you have some dental issues, but they're not necessary for everyone. Learn what dental veneers are, how much they cost, and if you need them. It's always helpful to know what your dental needs are and what your options are for care.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers should not be confused with dentures, dental implants, or even dental bridges. Dental veneers are thin caps that are placed on the front of the tooth to help fix a variety of issues dental patients have. Many of these issues are considered largely cosmetic in nature, such as having crooked or uneven teeth or having noticeable gaps in the front teeth. Other dental concerns that dental veneers can fix are more serious; dental veneers can be used to repair a cracked or chipped tooth to reinforce it or can be placed on teeth that have weakened tooth enamel to help restore the tooth and prevent issues.

How much do dental veneers cost?

Since dental veneers are designed to more permanently repair or improve a smile, they come at a cost. Dental veneers cost around $400 or more per tooth, depending on the material chosen for the dental veneer. The more costly dental veneers are porcelain and cost around $925 or more per tooth to put in. Costs vary depending on the work you need to have done to get dental veneers put in place, where you live, and what type of dental veneers you get. Composite dental veneers are cheaper than their porcelain counterparts.

Do you need dental veneers?

Dental veneers can shape your smile and improve minor imperfections. You can get dental veneers if braces, caps, and other dental interventions are not working. You can also get dental veneers if you're worried about the strength of your tooth enamel and need extensive work done on your teeth to improve their shape and appearance. Your dentist will work with your insurance provider for the parts of the procedures covered by insurance and may be willing to work with you regarding a payment plan for services as well.

Ask your dentist about dental veneers to see if they will work for you. You can consider getting dental veneers in addition to other dental work if you need extensive work done. Dental veneers may be able to improve your smile in ways other dental procedures won't, and can help you feel more confident in your grin and oral health overall.

To learn more about dental veneers, talk to your dentist.