I already knew I needed more than just whitening. When I first got my veneer I was more concerned about no longer having a gray tooth than what veneer maintenance might look like down the line (teenage priorities). In fact, I had nearly missed the doctor mentioning that I would need to have my veneer replaced down the line. At the moment, it felt like a problem for Future Kassidy to deal with. But that Future Kassidy is now present-day me — and I had a lot to learn about what replacement actually entails.
“For a replacement, a cosmetic dentist will need to strategically cut off the veneers with a bur [drill] or a laser technology to remove without cutting the natural teeth. You don’t know what’s underneath, which can be more complicated,” says cosmetic dentist Daniel Rubinshtein, adding the procedure is more complicated than that of installing the initial veneer.
How much does veneer replacement cost?
In the world of cosmetic dentistry, you get what you pay for.
Depending on your treatment, your doctor will assess what type of veneer fits your smile and your budget. On the lower end, composite veneers (often referred to as “same day veneers”) can cost between $250 and $1,500 per tooth while a high-quality porcelain veneer, which is more durable and artfully designed in a lab, can cost between $500 to $2,500 per tooth. If you’re going to a premiere dentist, well, I should say artist, like I did, the price tag can be upwards of $5,000 per tooth. There is a laundry list of factors that determine the cost of your new smile including where your doctor is located, what materials they will be using, how many teeth you need done, if there is any extra dental work you need done in tandem… the list goes on.
When deciding if you should get veneers, your replacement costs should factor into your planning. And no, there’s no 50% off discount when you need a replacement — the prices are the same. With good upkeep (brushing, flossing, actually going to the dentist for routine cleanings), composite veneers can last between four to eight years, while high-quality porcelain veneers have a much longer life, lasting between 15 to 20 years. Every case is different; your age when you get your veneers and your maintenance routine will influence when you’ll need a replacement, or if you’ll need one at all.