Veneers – Hamden, CT

Cost vs. Cosmetic Dentistry: Weighing Your Options

Veneers are just one of several treatments that can enhance your smile. Below, you will find a comparison of some of the most popular aesthetic services offered by your cosmetic dentist in Hamden, including brief notes about pricing.

• Braces and clear aligners are not strictly cosmetic treatments. In fact, they are more frequently used for individuals whose dental misalignment is adversely affecting their oral health. They tend to cost several thousand dollars, and start-to-finish treatment often takes a year or longer. They do not enhance the size, shape, or color of teeth.
• Teeth whitening. Whether you choose an in-office or at-home teeth whitening treatment, you can expect to pay relatively little (in comparison with other cosmetic treatments). The downside to whitening is that, depending on how you care for your teeth, the results may not last as long as you hoped for. Whitening does not change the size, shape, or positioning of teeth.
• Dental bonding. At first, dental bonding looks similar to veneers. It is also fast and relatively affordable. Its biggest drawback is that it typically needs to be replaced every 3 – 5 years or so.
• Veneers may be regarded as a sort of “all-in-one” cosmetic treatment. They can disguise chips, cracks, discoloration, and even some cases of minor misalignment. With proper care, they have the potential to last for 15 – 20 years or longer. Plus, designing and placing them requires only a few appointments. They are a smart purchase for image-conscious individuals who want a beautiful smile that stands the test of time.

How to Make Veneers Affordable

Veneers are classified as a purely elective procedure. Therefore, it is extremely rare for dental insurance to cover them. However, that does not mean you are without help when it comes to affording your desired treatment. Our practice offers a few useful provisions:

• Essential Dental Plan. This discount plan offers a significant discount on virtually all the services available in our office. Unlike regular insurance, it comes with no waiting period, deductible, or annual maximum.
• Many patients are eligible for third-party financing through CareCredit. The application process is fast, and our team can help you through it if necessary.
• Treatment adjustments. We may be able to use fewer veneers with the goal of accommodating your budget, with the goal of placing more veneers in the future.

Would you like to learn more about veneers in Hamden and their cost? Contact us today. Our team looks forward to helping you on your journey toward your ideal smile!

Are Veneers Permanent?

During the veneers treatment process, your cosmetic dentist in Hamden will have to remove a small portion of your tooth enamel. That enamel will never grow back on its own, and without it, your teeth will be extra-sensitive. Their appearance may be affected as well. You will always need veneers or another type of restoration to protect them. Therefore, in a sense, veneers are a permanent commitment. You will need to get yours replaced, on average, every 10 – 15 years or so.

Do not let the long-term nature of this treatment scare you away. The vast majority of patients who get veneers are happy with their decision.

Will I Still Be Able to Drink Coffee with Veneers?

Veneers are made out of porcelain, a nonporous material that does not absorb pigment like normal tooth enamel. Therefore, you should be able to enjoy coffee in moderation without worrying that it will adversely affect your smile’s appearance.

However, keep in mind that veneers are not entirely invulnerable to discoloration. The cement that holds them in place may change color over time. The veneers themselves may also develop small scratches that can collect pigments in them. Taking good care of your veneers and not overindulging in dark beverages can help your smile stay looking and feeling its best.

Can Veneers Be Used for Bite Corrections?

Veneers do not actually move the teeth, so they cannot be used for bite corrections. If you have significant dental misalignment, you should ask your dental team about orthodontic treatment before you get veneers.

With that being said, it is important to note that veneers can hide some types of bite problems. For example, if you have a minor open bite, veneers can make your teeth appear longer, thereby making it difficult or impossible for onlookers to notice the bite issue.

Can You Whiten Veneers?

Veneers cannot be whitened. Therefore, if you are not happy with the current color of your teeth, and you do not yet have veneers, you should consider getting a whitening treatment before you move ahead with veneers. The veneers will be shade-matched to the current color of your smile.

If you already have veneers and they are looking a little lackluster, do not try whitening products; your natural teeth may respond, but your veneers will not. You could end up with a mismatched smile. Instead, talk to your cosmetic dentist about your concerns. The appearance of your veneers may improve after they are polished. However, it is also possible that you will have to get them replaced in order to achieve the look you want.