Oftentimes, dental policies don’t cover cosmetic dentistry, but that doesn’t mean your dreams of having a beautiful, flawless smile won’t come to fruition. Cosmetic procedures almost always require payment out of pocket, but a reputable dentist will offer a variety of finance options. If you’ve been salivating over the idea of getting veneers, it might be much more accessible and affordable than you think.

Veneers are increasingly common. In fact, you probably know somebody with them! Some patients get just one veneer to replace a single wayward tooth, some get a full set, and some fall somewhere in between. A dentist will often recommend you only get veneers when necessary (and orthodontics aren’t an option) or on teeth that are visible when you talk or smile. Veneers look, feel and often act a lot like your natural teeth, but they’re not the same thing. Whenever possible, it’s best to retain as much of your natural teeth as possible.

The specific costs depends on a variety of factors, but your orthodontist’s team will provide you with simple options including a breakdown of prices. There are a variety of payment options, from mixing and matching your own finances with a special financing plan/credit card to perhaps setting up a schedule. The cost of veneers have gone down in recent years thanks to advances in technology, so many patients are surprised that the veneers they’ve been wanting are well within reach.

You might also want to talk to your dentist about options besides veneers. You could be a better candidate for another type of cosmetic dentistry, or even orthodontics. Teeth shift over the years, so if you weren’t a candidate for braces earlier in life, you might be now! If the look of braces is what turns you off, Invisalign or braces on the inside of teeth might be an option for you.

Talk to your dentist about your goals, finances and budget and together you can design a plan that will make you smile.