Cosmetic dentistry has a variety of ways to bring a smile into a whiter and more beautiful state. If you are concerned about chips, cracks, stains, gaps, or misalignments in your teeth, veneers and Lumineers can both be excellent options to cover up these flaws and allow you to present prettier pearly whites to the world. Read on to learn a little more about these two incredible, versatile treatment options along with some tips as to which option is right for you.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are thin shells typically made of porcelain that are designed to fit over the teeth while imitating their natural color, luster, and shape. They serve to cover up troubled teeth and can even close gaps or straighten out minor misalignments and can be placed in as few as two appointments.
Using a local anesthetic, your dentist will shave a tiny amount of enamel from the teeth being treated. They will then take bite impressions before attaching temporary veneers. The impressions will be sent to a lab so your permanent veneers can be specially manufactured for you. About two weeks later at your next appointment, your dentist will cement your permanent veneers into place, providing you with up to fifteen years with a beautiful new smile. Teeth treated with veneers will need to wear them for the rest of their lives, so they will require periodic replacement.
Lumineers
Lumineers are a special brand of veneers made of super-thin porcelain that could maybe be thought of as “Veneers Lite.” They do not require any removal of enamel before placement, so the treated teeth can function normally if the Lumineers are ever removed. Since Lumineers are thinner and more translucent than veneers, they might not be as ideal for people with severe tooth discoloration.
Like veneers, they can be placed in two appointments, but the first of which only consists of your dentist taking an impression of your teeth. This mold is then sent to a lab to manufacture your Lumineers. During your second appointment two to four weeks later, your dentist will bond your Lumineers to your teeth. Unlike veneers, Lumineers can be removed, and they can last for up to twenty years.
Which Option Is Right for Me?
Lumineers are the more affordable option while being less invasive because they do not require any removal of existing tooth structure. However, since porcelain veneers are thicker and more opaque, they are probably better suited for patients with more severe damage or discoloration.
Lumineers and porcelain veneers are both great options for covering up flaws in your smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine if either of these cosmetic techniques is the best way to give you a stunning new grin.
About the Practice
Windermere Dentistry provides superior dental services to the community of Windermere, FL. Led by Drs. Matthew McKissock and Rupal Thakkar, the staff delivers personalized attention with the latest technologies in a warm and friendly environment. Areas of expertise include preventive, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. For more information about whether porcelain veneers or Lumineers are right for you, contact the office online or dial (407) 909-1099.
