How much do Porcelain Veneers cost in Melbourne?

Generally when people are researching the costs of porcelain veneers, they will often be confronted with the wide range or differentiating in costs from clinic to clinic. There are a lot of factors that contribute to the ranging fees that practices charge. 

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for those looking to enhance their smile with long lasting, natural or extravagantly looking restoratives that will provide durable results. If you’re considering porcelain veneers and live in Melbourne, it’s important to understand the costs involved and how this may differ from clinic to clinic. This blog post will guide you through the factors that are at play, the typical price range of porcelain veneers in Melbourne, and what you can expect during the process.

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of medical-grade ceramic that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of your teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps, and misalignment. Porcelain veneers are known for their durability, stain resistance, and ability to mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth.

Several factors influence the cost of porcelain veneers, including:

1. Number of Veneers: The more veneers you’re looking at getting, the higher the overall cost will become, even if the cost per tooth is less. 
2. Complexity of the Case: Cases that require more extensive preparation or additional treatments (such as gum contouring or teeth whitening) can increase the overall cost.
3. Dentist’s Experience and Reputation: Highly experienced and reputable cosmetic dentists may charge more for their services than relatively new dentists looking to build their portfolio and knowledge. 
4. Materials Used: The quality of the porcelain and the laboratory that fabricates the veneers can impact the price. 
5. Location of the Practice: Dental practices in upscale areas or city centers may have higher fees compared to those in suburban locations.

In Melbourne, the cost of porcelain veneers can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $3,500 per tooth. A typical  breakdown of what you might expect:

• Standard Porcelain Veneers: $1,200 to $1,800 per tooth
• High-Quality Porcelain Veneers: $1,800 to $3,500 per tooth

It's important to note that these prices are per tooth. Some practices may offer smile makeover packages for those wanting 6, 8 or 10 teeth veneered. When researching, it is important to factor in whether the packages include whitening, cleans, retainers and records. If they don’t, all these little costs definitely add up and can make the overall treatment unexpectedly costly. 

The cost of porcelain veneers generally includes:

• Initial Consultation: Examination and discussion of your goals and treatment plan.
• Preparation: Shaping of the teeth and taking impressions/scans for the manufacture of your custom veneers.
• Fabrication: Creation of the veneers in a dental laboratory.
• Placement: Bonding the veneers to your teeth and making any necessary adjustments.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Ensuring the veneers fit well, removal of excess glue and adjusting the bite whilst addressing any issues.

Porcelain veneers are a significant investment, but they offer numerous benefits that can make them worthwhile depending on your individual goals. They are also a long term solution that also offer the following benefits: 

• Aesthetic Improvement: Veneers can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile, boosting your confidence.
• Durability: With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years or longer.
• Stain Resistance: Porcelain is highly resistant to staining, helping your smile stay bright, vibrant and beautiful.
• Minimal Maintenance: Veneers require no special care beyond regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-up and cleans, just like your normal smile. 

If the cost of porcelain veneers seems daunting, many dental practices in Melbourne offer financing options to make the treatment more affordable and accessible. These may include:

• Flexible Payment Plans: Spreading the cost over several months or years.
• Dental Loans: Financing through third-party lenders specializing in healthcare costs.
• Superannuation: Depending on your individual circumstance, you may be able to use your Super to cover the cost of your dental care including crowns, braces, general dental, implants, orthodontics, periodontics and more. Your Super may be accessed on compassionate grounds. 

Porcelain veneers are now the go-to option for transforming your smile in this modern society, but they do come with a cost. While the investment is substantial, the long-lasting and aesthetic results can make it well worth the expense, depending on your individual and personal goals. 

If you’re considering porcelain veneers, it’s important to consult with a reputable cosmetic dentist to discuss your goals, get a personalized quote, and explore financing options. Your journey to a brighter, more confident smile starts with understanding your options, doing extensive research and making an informed decision.