Cosmetic dentistry
Porcelain veneers
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain bonded to the front of your teeth to change their colour, shape or length. They are a long-term change, so we plan them carefully with you and show you the result before we start.
- Time in the chair
- 2–3 hours at the main visit
- Visits
- Two or three, over 3–4 weeks
- Numbing
- Yes, local
- Typical cost
- $500–$2,900 per tooth
What it is
A veneer covers the front surface of a tooth. It is used for teeth that are chipped, worn, stained in a way whitening can’t fix, or slightly uneven in shape or spacing. Porcelain resists staining and, cared for, veneers often last 10 to 15 years or more.
To make room, a thin layer of enamel (usually about half a millimetre) is shaped off each tooth. That is permanent, which is why we start with a consultation and a preview before any tooth is touched. Sometimes bonding, whitening or clear aligners get you where you want with less, and we will say so.
Who does this here
Dr. Marcus TellezWhat to expect, step by step
Consultation
We talk about what you’d like to change, take photos and a scan, and check your gums and bite. You leave with options and a written estimate.
The preview
From your scan, a model of the new smile is made. We can place a temporary mock-up over your own teeth so you see it in the mirror before you commit.
Preparing the teeth
With the area numb, each tooth is lightly shaped and scanned. You leave the same day with temporary veneers close to the final look.
The fitting
Two to three weeks later we try the porcelain veneers in, check colour and fit with you, then bond them in place.
Follow-up
A short visit a week or two later to check your bite and gums.
How long it takes
Usually two or three visits over three to four weeks. The preparation visit takes two to three hours for a set of six to eight veneers.
Teeth can be a little sensitive for a few days. As with natural teeth, don’t bite straight into ice, pen caps or hard candy.
What it costs
$500–$2,900
Typical U.S. range, per tooth, before insurance
Most patients pay somewhere in this range. Your exact cost depends on the material (composite at the low end, porcelain higher), how many teeth, and how much preparation is needed. Many people treat six to ten upper teeth.
Veneers are almost always considered cosmetic and are not covered by insurance.
This is a guide, not our fee and not a quote. After your exam you get a written estimate, and we check your insurance, before anything starts. Call (602) 555-0148 for a quote. Where these ranges come from.
Questions patients ask
Do veneers look fake?
Veneers look fake when they are too white, too thick or too uniform. We match shape and translucency to your face and your other teeth, and you approve the preview first.
Are veneers reversible?
No. Because enamel is shaped, the tooth will always need a veneer or crown afterward. That is the main reason to be sure first.
How to book
Use our request form and we’ll call you back within one business day to pick a time, or call us now on (602) 555-0148. Tell us it’s for veneers and we’ll book the right length of visit.