Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These restorations are bonded permanently to the tooth to improve appearance, correcting issues like discoloration, chips, gaps, or slight misalignment. The cost of this elective cosmetic procedure varies significantly based on the type of material chosen and the specific dental practice delivering the care in Missouri.
Understanding the Price Range in Missouri
The total cost of veneers is calculated per tooth, generally falling between $800 and $2,500 for a single veneer in Missouri. This range is driven by the choice between composite resin and porcelain materials. Composite veneers, made from a tooth-colored filling material and often applied directly in the office, represent the lower end of the cost spectrum, averaging around $500 per tooth but potentially ranging up to $1,800.
Porcelain veneers are fabricated in a dental laboratory to be stronger and more stain-resistant, generally costing between $900 and $2,500 per tooth. Practices in high-overhead cities like St. Louis and Kansas City often charge near the upper end of this average, with porcelain veneers frequently costing $1,750 to $2,000 per tooth. The lower range is more typical for practices located in smaller, less densely populated regions.
Key Variables Affecting the Final Cost
The final price quoted for veneers is influenced by several factors. The experience and specialization of the dental provider play a direct role, with cosmetic dentists often commanding higher fees for their expertise. These providers may utilize more advanced technology, such as digital smile design or high-end dental laboratories, which contributes to the overall investment.
The total number of teeth receiving veneers is the most significant factor in the final bill, as the cost is always calculated on a per-tooth basis. Although the price per unit may sometimes be slightly reduced for a large treatment plan, the overall expense increases substantially with each additional veneer. For example, eight porcelain veneers costing $2,000 each would result in a total cost of $16,000.
The price often incorporates ancillary procedures necessary for a successful outcome. These procedures include:
- Initial consultation.
- Diagnostic imaging like X-rays.
- Creation of teeth impressions.
- Placement of temporary veneers while the permanent ones are fabricated.
If a patient requires preliminary work, such as treating existing tooth decay, addressing gum disease, or performing minor gum contouring, these preparatory procedures will increase the final expense.
Payment Options and Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance coverage for veneers is limited because the procedure is generally classified as cosmetic. Insurance plans rarely provide coverage, meaning the patient typically assumes the entire financial responsibility for the treatment.
An exception occurs if the veneer is deemed medically necessary to restore functionality, such as repairing a tooth fractured due to trauma. Coverage is usually partial in these rare cases and may only apply to the restorative portion of the procedure, not the elective aesthetic elements.
Many Missouri dental offices offer third-party financing options to manage the cost. Common programs include dental credit cards like CareCredit, and loans from companies such as LendingClub or Cherry. These options allow patients to pay for the procedure over time, often with low- or no-interest promotional periods. Individuals with Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can also use these pre-tax dollars to cover the cost of veneers, which can help offset the out-of-pocket expense.