Porcelain veneers cover the front surface of a tooth to change its shape, color, size or alignment. Done well, they look completely natural and last 15–20 years. Done poorly — too thick, wrong shade, unhealthy gum line — they look like an ad for bad cosmetic dentistry and have to be redone.
Cost in Anchorage
Porcelain veneers in Anchorage range from $1,400 to $2,500 per tooth. Most cosmetic cases involve 6–10 upper teeth, putting a full smile makeover between $10,000 and $25,000. Composite (chairside) veneers are more affordable at $400–$900 per tooth but don't last as long.
The Process, Visit by Visit
Visit 1: Consultation and Smile Design
Photos, scans and a discussion about what bothers you and what you want. We use digital smile design software to preview your result before any irreversible work.
Visit 2: Preparation and Temporaries
We remove a thin layer of enamel (typically 0.3–0.7mm) so the veneers sit flush. Impressions are taken and you leave with temporary veneers that preview the final look.
Visit 3: Bonding (2–3 Weeks Later)
Final veneers are bonded with light-cured cement. We check fit, bite and color before final cementation.
Are You a Candidate?
Veneers work well for:
- Permanently stained or discolored teeth
- Small chips and worn edges
- Minor crowding or gaps (without orthodontics)
- Misshapen or peg-shaped teeth
- Worn enamel that's affecting bite
Veneers are NOT ideal if you have:
- Active gum disease
- Severe grinding without a night guard
- Significant decay (crowns are better)
- Thin or compromised enamel
How to Make Veneers Last
- Wear a night guard if you grind
- Don't bite hard objects (ice, pens, fingernails)
- Floss daily — gum recession exposes veneer edges
- Keep up with 6-month cleanings
- Avoid acidic drinks that can dissolve bonding cement
Frequently Asked Questions
Do veneers ruin your teeth?
Modern veneers remove only 0.3–0.7mm of enamel — about the thickness of a fingernail. Your tooth remains healthy underneath. You will need a veneer (or another restoration) on that tooth for life.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With proper care, 15–20 years on average. We've seen well-made veneers last 25+ years. Composite veneers usually last 5–8 years.
Will insurance cover veneers?
Cosmetic veneers are usually not covered. If a veneer is replacing a fractured tooth, partial coverage is sometimes available. We verify before treatment.
Can you whiten veneers?
No — porcelain doesn't respond to whitening agents. We always whiten your natural teeth first, then match the veneers to the brighter shade.