Porcelain Veneers – Lisle, IL

Cost vs. Cosmetic Dentistry: What’s Best for Me?

While veneers are one of the most comprehensive and effective ways to achieve your dream smile, they aren’t the only cosmetic option out there. We also provide additional services that are designed to improve your pearly whites in different ways, each with its unique price point and purpose. These include:

• Teeth Whitening – This is the most affordable solution for enhancing the appearance of your grin. Our team can provide you with custom at-home whitening trays along with a special bleaching agent to help you brighten your teeth after just a couple of weeks. The results, however, will mostly affect the color of your smile, but it won’t change the size, shape, or spacing of your teeth.
• Cosmetic Bonding – By using composite resin, we can effectively address any minor dental imperfections in your smile, including chips, stains, cracks, and gaps. While this treatment can be completed in as little as a single appointment, the results will typically only last about 10 years with proper care, whereas veneers can go for 15 years or more.
• Invisalign – Instead of using metal wires and brackets, you can gradually straighten your smile with Invisalign. These aligners are practically invisible, making them the most discreet method for fixing minor orthodontic issues. Once you’ve completed the treatment plan, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfectly aligned smile for the rest of your life as long as you wear your retainers. This treatment will only affect the spacing between your teeth, but it won’t change the size, shape, or color.
• Veneers – This cosmetic solution comes with the highest upfront cost, but you’ll be able to improve multiple dental flaws simultaneously in just a couple of visits. Veneers can upgrade the size, shape, and color of your teeth, and they’re designed to last a decade or more with minimal maintenance before needing to replace them. This can make them a cost-effective cosmetic option, as you won’t have to pay for multiple touchups to maintain them.

How to Make Veneers Affordable

Dental insurance companies usually won’t offer coverage for cosmetic services, since they’re considered “elective” procedures and not necessary for oral health. That said, your policy might have exceptions, such as if your porcelain shell is used for restorative purposes. Speak with your provider to know the details of your plan so that you can make the most of your benefits. If your coverage doesn’t include veneers, then you might consider financing through CareCredit instead! This third-party financier can split the total cost of your treatment into monthly low-to-no-interest payments, allowing you to save more while achieving your dream smile. 

Are Veneers Permanent?

Veneers aren't permanent because they must be replaced, eventually. However, they aren't irreversible either. Your cosmetic dentist must etch the surfaces of your teeth to ensure a strong bond with the veneers. While this doesn't harm the health of your teeth, they can be vulnerable to damage if they aren't always covered by restorations, whether veneers or crowns. Thankfully, you won't have to worry about replacements often because veneers are meant to provide long-lasting results.

How Many Veneers Will I Need?

A veneer can be used to enhance the color, size, and shape of a tooth, but the overall goal is to improve the entire smile. Your cosmetic dentist in Lisle will recommend bonding them to the teeth visible when smiling to achieve the best results. There's no way to know how many you'll need without first examining your mouth. Some patients need as few as 4 to 6, while others may require 8 or more to reach their goals.

What Do Veneers Feel Like?

It may take a few days to adjust to veneers, but in no time at all, you may forget they are there. They are made of porcelain for a smooth, sleek finish. Porcelain also allows veneers to be thinner than ever before, so they won't feel heavy or bulky. Removing a small amount of enamel allows them to fit your teeth like gloves. There won't be any ridges or ledges. Although your veneers will be thin, they are also durable to feel like your real teeth.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

The average lifespan of a veneer is about 10 years, but it's common for them to last for much longer with the right aftercare. You can get the most from your investment by committing to your oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Your cosmetic dentist will recommend breaking any bad habits that can damage veneers, like smoking, chewing on your fingernails, or using your teeth to loosen plastic bottle lids. Don't forget to wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports to protect your pearly whites.

Can I Use My Dental Insurance to Pay for Veneers?

Dental insurance rarely covers elective services unless they are medically necessary. Your benefits can be used to offset the cost of your consultation or any preparatory procedures. A member of our team will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize any applicable coverage. We offer many financial solutions for any out-of-pocket expenses, like a monthly payment plan through CareCredit. We'll help you keep a stunning smile within your budget.