When it comes to having a perfect smile, you may want to consider getting veneers. Doing so can make a drastic change in your appearance and may even provide you with more self-confidence in the process. However, before going to the expense and trouble of getting porcelain veneers, there are certain things you should know.

The cost

Regardless if you do or don't have dental insurance, you will want to know the cost of veneers. It's unlikely that your insurance will cover this procedure unless you've been injured in an accident or had another type of injury.

The average cost for getting porcelain veneers is $500-$1,100 per tooth. However, this may vary based on your location and your individual dental situation.

The process

Veneers are simply a thin porcelain laminate that is placed on your teeth. It's common to be able to get this process completed with only two trips to the dentist. Below are the normal steps that are involved when it comes to getting veneers:

1. Diagnosis – The first thing your dentist will do is ensure you're a candidate for veneers. This will involve evaluating your teeth and possibly doing x-rays, as well.

2. Preparation – It's common for the dentist to shave off about .5 millimeters of your existing teeth so the veneers will properly fit. However, there are cases when this doesn't have to be completed, but it usually does.

3. Bonding – Once the fit has been properly made, and the veneers are ready, these will be bonded to your teeth. Prior to leaving the office, the dentist will make any additional adjustments that are necessary.

The advantages

It's ideal to know what the advantages of getting veneers are before getting this completed.

Below are some benefits of getting veneers:

1.   Veneers can straighten crooked teeth or repair a broken or cracked tooth.

2.   The gums typically adjust to the veneers easily.

3.   Veneers are stain-resistant and this is ideal for coffee and tea drinkers.

4.   The color of veneers is easily matched to the color of your existing teeth.

5.   Veneers are durable and may last up to ten years or even longer in some cases.

If you don't like the smile you have, then you can change it by getting porcelain veneers. Be sure to talk to your cosmetic dental professional, Dr. Paul Goodman, about getting this process completed to give you the smile you deserve to have.