Cosmetic Dentistry Β· San Diego
Veneers β cover what bothers you, keep what works
Maybe it is the gap you have always hated, a chipped tooth from years ago, or staining that whitening cannot touch. Veneers are a thin facing bonded to the front of your tooth β changing the shape, size, and color in a way that looks like a natural tooth, not a cap.
There are two types: porcelain (lab-made, more durable) and composite (in-office, more affordable). This page covers both honestly β because the right choice depends on your teeth, your budget, and how long you want the result to last.
We will not push you toward either option. At the consultation, we look at your teeth and tell you what we recommend and why.
What veneers are β and what they are not
A veneer covers only the visible front surface of a tooth. It is not a full crown (which wraps the entire tooth). Veneers are used cosmetically β they change how a tooth looks, not how it functions. If a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or needs structural support, a crown is the right tool.
Porcelain veneers
- β’ Custom ceramic shells made in a dental lab
- β’ Requires light enamel removal (0.3 β 0.5 mm)
- β’ 2 appointments over 2 β 3 weeks
- β’ Last 10 β 15+ years with care
- β’ Highly stain-resistant
- β’ Most natural-looking option
Composite veneers
- β’ Resin sculpted and bonded directly in-chair
- β’ Often requires little or no enamel removal
- β’ Completed in 1 appointment
- β’ Last 5 β 7 years; can be repaired chairside
- β’ Stains more than porcelain over time
- β’ More affordable entry point
Porcelain vs. composite β quick rule of thumb: If you want a long-lasting, stain-resistant result and are doing multiple teeth, porcelain is typically the better investment. If you want to correct one or two teeth, are on a tighter budget, or want to try the look before committing, composite is a reasonable starting point.
Good candidates β and when veneers may not be the answer
Good candidates
- β Chipped, cracked, or worn front teeth
- β Permanent staining whitening cannot fix
- β Minor gaps between front teeth
- β Uneven tooth length or irregular shapes
- β Healthy gums and sufficient enamel
- β Non-grinders (or willing to wear a night guard)
May not be the right fit
- β Active gum disease (treat first)
- β Severe decay or large existing fillings
- β Significant misalignment (Invisalign first)
- β Heavy clenching/grinding without a night guard plan
- β Insufficient enamel for bonding
- β Expecting to whiten teeth in the future (match veneer shade first)
What veneers cost
We quote your specific cost at the consultation. For general context on regional averages: according to the ADA, porcelain veneers in the US typically run $900 to $2,500 per tooth; composite veneers $250 to $1,500 per tooth. San Diego-area fees generally fall within or just above the upper end of those ranges. Total cost depends on how many teeth are involved and which type you choose.
Insurance: Cosmetic veneers are not covered. If a veneer is replacing structurally compromised enamel, partial coverage is possible β we verify your plan.
HSA / FSA: Generally not eligible for cosmetic veneers. If veneers are placed for restorative reasons, your plan administrator may allow it β confirm with your HR team.
Financing: Because veneer cases often involve multiple teeth, the total cost can be significant. We discuss payment options at the consultation. CareCredit and other dental financing can spread the cost into monthly payments.
Cost ranges are public regional averages sourced from ADA guidance, not our specific pricing. Your quote is confirmed in writing before treatment.
What to expect at each visit
Porcelain veneers β two appointments
- 1Consultation & planning (60 min): We photograph your teeth, discuss the result you want, and map out how many veneers are needed. Shade selection happens here.
- 2Tooth preparation (60 β 90 min): Local anesthetic is applied. We remove a thin layer of enamel (0.3 β 0.5 mm) and take impressions. Temporary veneers are placed while the lab fabricates your permanents (1 β 2 weeks).
- 3Bonding appointment (60 β 90 min): Temporaries are removed, permanent veneers are checked for fit and shade, then bonded with dental cement. Minor adjustments are made, then you are done.
Composite veneers β single visit
- 1Consultation & shade matching (15 min): We pick the composite shade and review your goal.
- 2Bonding (30 β 60 min per tooth): Tooth surface is etched, composite is applied in layers, sculpted to shape, and cured with a light. Polishing gives it a natural sheen.
- 3Bite check and polish (10 min): We verify your bite alignment and send you home the same appointment.
Caring for your veneers
- β’ Brush twice daily and floss β veneers do not protect the underlying tooth from decay
- β’ Avoid biting directly into very hard foods: ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels, pen caps
- β’ If you grind or clench at night, wear a custom night guard β this is the single biggest factor in longevity
- β’ Porcelain: highly stain-resistant, but the bonding cement at the edge can discolor over years β moderate coffee/tea habits and clean edges with regular hygiene
- β’ Composite: stains more readily β limit coffee, red wine, and dark foods; consider polishing at your hygiene visits
- β’ Avoid nail-biting and chewing on pencils (habit-based damage is the most common cause of chips)
- β’ Keep up with regular check-ups β we monitor veneer margins and catch issues early
Your questions answered
Veneers FAQ
Related cosmetic treatments
- Teeth whitening β if surface staining is the main concern and teeth are structurally sound
- Dental bonding β a faster, lower-cost option for a single chipped or discolored tooth
- Invisalign β straighten first if significant misalignment underlies the cosmetic concern
- All cosmetic dentistry options β compare treatments side by side
See what veneers could do for your smile
Start with a free consult β we look at your teeth, explain which type fits your case, and give you an honest cost estimate before you decide anything.
5296 University Ave, Suite I Β· San Diego, CA