It is vital to note that Lumineers® is a brand of veneers. Veneers are a treatment option dentists use to cover discolored or broken teeth. They appear white and glossy, improving the aesthetics of your smile.
There are different advantages and disadvantages to having traditional veneers or Lumineers. It complicates choosing the right kind of veneers. Here are some facts to help you better understand the pros and cons of each.
Veneers
Veneers are artificial porcelain or resin-composite coatings that aesthetically enhance your natural teeth. They bond to your teeth, making them look white, bright, glossy, and perfect. Dentists use veneers to cover misshapen teeth, decay, staining, or discoloration.
They are not as porous as tooth enamel. Thus, veneers are more resistant to staining. The procedure requires at least three trips to the dentist. They will reshape the surface of your teeth to an amount equal to the thickness of the veneers. Next, they will make a model or impression of your teeth, which they use to make your veneers. The whole process takes about two to four weeks.
Advantages of Traditional Veneers
They are long-lasting due to their material, strong porcelain, which gums can tolerate. They also have a variety of shades, giving your teeth a natural look. They are resistant to stubborn stains since porcelain is not as porous as enamel.
Disadvantages of Traditional Veneers
Traditional veneers can be expensive due to the preparation they need. The procedure can also cause damage to nerves and teeth if your dentist is not careful. The process of installing traditional veneers is also not reversible. Hence, you need to make up your mind before getting them.
Lumineers
Lumineers is a brand of veneers that is thinner than traditional veneers. They are also a treatment option for discolored or broken teeth. Instead of porcelain, Lumineers use ultra-thin laminate. Therefore, they do not need as much preparation as traditional veneers. Hence their nickname, no-prep veneers.
Advantages of Lumineers
Lumineers are less invasive and do not require any prep work. Thus, they do not damage the nerves or teeth. They cost less than veneers because they do not require as much preparation. You only need two visits to your dentist. Lumineers are ultra-thin, making them less bulky. They are also reversible, so you can take them off when you are ready.
Disadvantages of Lumineers
Lumineers do not hide discoloration and staining as effectively as veneers. Thus, they may need to be thicker. Thicker Lumineers give a bulky, chunky look that is not appealing. They are also not ideal for misshapen teeth.
Which Option Is Better?
The better option depends on your needs. Both are efficient treatments, depending on the patient’s requirements. You will need to consider the severity of your problems, the invasiveness of the procedure, and its durability. These, plus the facts above, will help you weigh your options.
But before getting any of the procedures, ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. Good oral health will help you undergo the treatments in a better way.
For more information on veneers and Lumineers, visit Robert A. Rees, DDS, at our office in La Jolla, California. You can also call (858) 454-6181 to book an appointment today.