There are many choices in cosmetic dentistry if you want to improve the appearance of your teeth. Lumineers are a solution to both aesthetic and dental problems. Lumineers are developed exclusively by the Den-Mat Corporation in California. They are dental veneers that are constructed from very strong, ultra-thin porcelain. These unique properties allow your dentist to craft a beautiful smile in a quick and easy process that’s pain-free.
Comparison
Lumineers differ from traditional porcelain veneers. The main difference being there is no grinding or shaving of your tooth, which means your original tooth structure stays intact and the procedure is pain-free. This is made possible due to the patented Cerinate porcelain used in Lumineers, which is only 0.2 millimeters thick. Traditional porcelain veneers are approximately 0.5 millimeters thick, therefore your teeth need to be prepared by shaving, grinding and drilling before the veneers can be applied. This is a painful process requiring anesthetic shots, according to Cosmetic Denistry Guide.
Use
Lumineers offer a solution to correct a number of dental problems. They are used to permanently whiten badly stained or discolored teeth and to revitalize old dental work, like crowns and bridges. They offer a quick alternative to wearing braces and are used to correct crooked, crowded or misaligned teeth, according to Lumineers Smile Design Studios. Lumineers are used to provide a permanent solution for cracked or chipped teeth.
Cost
The cost of Lumineers varies from patient to patient, geographical location and the type of dental practice. As Lumineers require less preparation and fewer visits to your dentist’s office, they cost approximately ¾ the price of traditional porcelain veneers. According to Animated Teeth, the cost per Lumineer is between $700 and $1,300.
Procedure
The application of Lumineers usually only requires two visits to your dentist’s office, according to Lumineers. During the first visit, your dentist will help you decide what shade of Lumineers will be most suitable for you. A mold of your teeth is taken, which is then crafted exclusively by the Cerinate Smile Design Studios in Los Angeles. During the second visit, your custom-made Lumineers are checked for fit and comfort, after which they are bonded painlessly to your teeth.
Considerations
Even though the application of Lumineers is a reversible procedure, bear in mind if you decide to remove them, it can cost you hundreds of dollars, according to staff at Animated Teeth. The bond between your teeth and Lumineers is very strong, therefore your dentist will use a dental drill, which can be painful and also lead to the grinding of your tooth enamel. Since Lumineers require minimal tooth preparation before application, you may end up with a little ridge at the edge of your tooth. This can lead to an accumulation of plaque and gum irritation.
