Dental veneers, as a leading cosmetic dentistry solution, provide individuals with the opportunity to correct various aesthetic concerns such as discolouration, chips, or gaps between teeth.
As patients consider these options, understanding the financial implications is crucial. The cost of dental veneers in Ontario can vary widely based on the type of material chosen.
In this article, Good Caring Canada explains the different materials, cost determinants, additional expenses, and the array of funding and support options available to ensure that essential dental care remains accessible to Ontarians.
Table of Contents:
- Types of Dental Veneers
- Cost of Dental Veneers in Ontario
- Cost Variables for Dental Veneers
- Additional Costs and Procedures
- Funding & Financing Options
- Insurance Coverage for Dental Veneers
👨🏻⚕️ Types of Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry solution in Canada, offering individuals an opportunity to enhance their smile by addressing various aesthetic concerns such as discolouration, chips, or gaps between teeth. Various materials are used in the fabrication of dental veneers, each with its unique attributes and applications. The primary types of veneers include porcelain, composite resin, porcelain laminate, zirconia, Emax, and lithium disilicate.
- Porcelain veneers are highly favoured for their ability to mimic the light-reflecting properties and texture of natural teeth. Crafted from high-quality ceramic, these veneers are custom-made to fit precisely over the existing teeth, offering a durable and stain-resistant solution. Their translucency ensures a natural-looking appearance, making them one of the most aesthetically pleasing options available. Porcelain veneers typically require some preparation of the tooth surface, which involves removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the veneer.
- Composite resin veneers are made from a tooth-coloured resin that is similar to the material used in dental fillings. These veneers can be built up directly in the mouth or crafted in a dental lab before being bonded to the tooth. This type of veneer is less expensive than porcelain and can usually be applied with minimal tooth alteration. However, composite resin veneers are more susceptible to staining and do not last as long as porcelain veneers.
- Porcelain laminate veneers are a thinner version of traditional porcelain veneers and require less removal of the tooth enamel. They are as strong and durable as standard porcelain veneers but are particularly suitable for patients with concerns about tooth reduction. Porcelain laminate veneers provide a balance between invasiveness and the aesthetic outcome, maintaining the natural strength of the teeth while improving appearance.
- Zirconia veneers are known for their exceptional strength and durability, making them suitable for patients who require more substantial reconstruction or who have a habit of teeth grinding, which might damage other types of veneers. Zirconia veneers are typically thicker than porcelain and are resistant to cracking, making them ideal for back teeth as well.
- Emax veneers are crafted from a single block of lithium disilicate ceramic, a material known for its durability and opalescent qualities. These veneers are particularly noted for their toughness and ability to withstand wear, making them a good choice for patients looking for a blend of strength and aesthetics. Emax can be used for veneers, crowns, and inlay bridges, providing a versatile solution across different dental applications.
- Lithium disilicate Veneers, similar to Emax as it is the same material under a brand name, offer excellent durability and aesthetic qualities. They are also highly customizable in terms of colour and translucency, ensuring that the final results closely match the natural appearance of adjacent teeth.
Each type of dental veneer offers unique advantages, and the choice often depends on the specific needs and preferences of the patient, as well as the recommendation of the dentist.
🧾 Cost of Dental Veneers in Ontario
In Ontario, teeth braces may cost from $490 to $1,140 — depending on the choice of materials.
- Porcelain veneers in Ontario may cost between $710 to $1,140
- Composite resin veneers in Ontario may cost between $490 to $500
It is important to consider ancillary costs that are typically required in addition to the underlying cost of dental veneers.
Our Good Caring Canada research team estimated the cost ranges based on market insights, patient reports, publicly available data sources, and annual fee guides from the Ontario Dental Association.
🔎 Cost Variables for Dental Veneers
The cost of dental veneers in Ontario is influenced by a variety of factors that can significantly affect the overall expense associated with this cosmetic dental procedure:
- Materials play a crucial role in determining the cost of dental veneers. Porcelain veneers are typically the most expensive due to their superior aesthetic qualities and durability. Composite resin veneers are generally less costly but might not offer the same longevity or stain resistance. Advanced materials like zirconia or Emax (lithium disilicate) also tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum because of their strength and excellent cosmetic appearance.
- The number of veneers directly impacts the cost. A full set of veneers, which can enhance the entire smile, will naturally cost more than veneers applied to just one or two teeth. The complexity of crafting multiple veneers and ensuring they are aesthetically cohesive across the patient’s smile adds to the overall expense.
- The experience level of the dental professional also influences the cost. A general dentist may charge less than a prosthodontist—a specialist in aesthetic restoration and replacement of teeth. Prosthodontists are often sought after for their advanced training and expertise, especially in complex cases, which can lead to a higher fee structure due to their specialized skills and knowledge.
- Geography affects the cost of dental veneers as well. Typically, dental services in urban centres such as Toronto or Vancouver are more expensive than in rural areas. The overhead costs in larger cities, including office rental, staff salaries, and equipment, can be higher, and these costs are often passed on to the patient.
📈 Additional Costs and Procedures
When considering dental veneers, patients in Ontario should be aware of various ancillary costs that extend beyond the initial expense of the veneers themselves. These additional costs encompass a range of necessary procedures and services that ensure the successful application and maintenance of veneers.
- Consultation is the first step in the veneer process, involving a meeting with a dental professional. This initial consultation is crucial for assessing the patient’s dental health, discussing aesthetic goals, and determining the suitability of veneers. The fee for this consultation varies depending on the dentist’s expertise and the complexity of the patient’s needs.
- Scans, including X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, are essential for creating a precise model of the patient’s teeth. These scans help plan the veneer placement and ensure that the final product fits perfectly and looks natural. The cost of these diagnostic tests can add significantly to the overall expenses.
- Application of the veneers typically involves preparing the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel, after which the veneers are bonded to the tooth surface. This process may require multiple appointments, and the fees associated reflect the time, materials, and dental expertise required.
- Sedation might be chosen by some patients during the application of veneers, especially if they experience anxiety or discomfort during dental procedures. The cost of sedation depends on the type chosen and the duration of the procedure.
- Prescription medication may be needed after the application of veneers to manage pain or prevent infection. While not always necessary, the cost of any medications can be an additional out-of-pocket expense.
- Follow-up appointment is critical to ensure the veneers are set correctly and the patient’s mouth is adjusting well. These appointments may also address any issues the patient experiences after the procedure. The costs for follow-up care are typically included in the overall treatment plan, but it is important to confirm this with the dental office.
💳 Payment & Funding Options
Dental veneers can represent a significant financial burden. However, multiple funding options can be available for pay for the costs:
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) allow individuals to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses, including dental procedures, with the added benefit of investing and growing these funds.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), typically part of an employer’s benefits plan, also allow for pre-tax contributions but usually require that the funds be used within the plan year or a specified grace period.
- Payment plans may be offered by dentists and oral surgeons, allowing patients to spread the cost of treatment over several months or even longer, making the expense more manageable.
- Financing options by way of loans or credit lines can be considered for medical expenses. These financial products often come with special terms, such as deferred interest periods or lower interest rates, tailored to make healthcare more accessible.
🛡️ Insurance Coverage for Dental Veneers
Dental insurance often does not cover veneers primarily because they are classified as cosmetic procedures. Many dental insurance plans are designed to provide coveIn Canada, dental insurance typically does not cover teeth whitening because it is generally classified as a cosmetic procedure. Most dental insurance policies are designed to provide financial support for treatments that are considered medically necessary, such as preventive care, diagnostics, and treatments for dental health issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth restoration.
Teeth whitening procedures are aimed primarily at improving the appearance of the teeth rather than their health. Because these treatments are elective and pursued for aesthetic reasons, insurance providers usually exclude them from coverage. This exclusion helps keep insurance premiums more affordable for essential dental care by not subsidizing cosmetic enhancements.
However, it is important for patients to review their specific dental insurance policies or speak directly with their insurance providers to understand exactly what is and is not covered. Some insurance plans may offer a cosmetic dental benefit that could be applied towards whitening, but such additions are typically available at an additional cost.