Hollywood’s $350,000 Smile: The 1,000-Watt Grin and the Eye-Watering Price Tag
In Hollywood, a smile sells. Beverly Hills-based cosmetic dentist Dr. David Frey has spent more than 30 years perfecting them, insisting the smile is the 'most important thing on the face' and that it must be flawless. Veneers can create that iconic look, but they come with a price. Dr. Frey estimates about $3,000 to $5,000 per veneer, with a full set typically costing between $200,000 and $350,000. He notes that changing the overall look of a smile at this level is 'really routine' for celebrities and billionaires who seek him out; 'If they want you, they find you.' Zendaya is named as a former patient, illustrating the demand for near-perfection in Hollywood's brightest circles.
What Veneers Are and How They Create a 'Perfect Smile'
Veneers are coverings that fit over the front surface of your teeth, concealing chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. The procedure can take weeks from the initial consultation to the application, and involves removing the enamel from the natural teeth before the new surfaces are placed on top. Dr. Frey describes the process as having a 'high artistic component'—almost priceless. He compares the craft to Picasso or Rembrandt, saying, 'There’s no price you could put on it' for such a transformative result. He identifies three main styles of veneers by shape: square, rounded, and enhanced. They steer people away from square veneers because they can look older; enhanced is the most popular.
Reality Check: How to Get the Look Without Veneers
For those who can't afford a full veneer set, Frey offers practical tips. He says, 'without porcelain veneers, a lot of the patients brush with hydrogen peroxide'—diluted solution as an oxidizer. He emphasizes everyday basics: regular dental checkups, brushing and flossing daily, and using a good quality toothbrush. He notes that a water flosser is an accessible tool that can help remove plaque and food particles. Plaque tends to return within about 24 hours, so consistent care matters. He recommends brushing twice a day and cleaning all around and between the teeth. A water flosser, used to clean between teeth, is highlighted as a successful, accessible tool in his practice.
