Are you considering improving your smile with the help of veneers? Are you curious about the differences between traditional veneers and a lesser-known product called Lumineers? Here’s a closer look at the similarities and differences between the two restorations, and why if you’re searching for a minimally invasive, long-lasting way to get a gorgeous, glowing grin, Lumineers could be the answer!
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain restorations that are custom made to fit over your existing teeth to improve their size, shape, spacing, and color. Although they can be completely customized to your exact specifications, they do require your dentist to remove some enamel from each tooth, so they’ll fit securely without adding extra bulk to your mouth. With proper care and use, they could last for 20+ years; however, because your teeth must be reshaped, this treatment is irreversible, so you’ll need to have a veneer or crown on those teeth going forward.
What Are Lumineers?
Although Lumineers are a type of veneer, not all veneers are considered Lumineers. Unlike their traditional counterpart, these restorations require no enamel to be removed from the teeth, so when it’s time to remove or replace them, you can choose to go without them and won’t need to cover those teeth with crowns.
The Main Differences Between Lumineers & Veneers
In addition to requiring less permanent prep-work, Lumineers offer several incredible benefits over traditional veneers, including:
- Affordability: Because they don’t need a lengthy preparation, your entire Lumineers treatment is often less expensive than getting traditional veneers.
- Lifespan: Although both could stay in place for 20+ years with proper care, Lumineers may not last as long as traditional veneers because they are thinner. However, if you maintain excellent oral hygiene and are careful with your diet (don’t eat anything too hard or crunchy), they could have very similar lifespans.
- Thickness: Lumineers are much thinner than traditional veneers and are made of a durable carinate porcelain that is only .2mm to .5mm in thickness.
Which Should I Choose: Veneers or Lumineers?
When determining which specific type of restoration to choose for your smile makeover, there are many important factors to consider. Because Lumineers are thinner, they are better at covering teeth that aren’t heavily stained or discolored. Also, because they need less prep-work, they are ideal for people who are on a tighter timeline, especially those who don’t want to commit to a lifetime of traditional veneers. Finally, when it comes to cost, because Lumineers are more affordable, they may be better suited to those on a smaller budget.
Remember, both veneers and Lumineers can instantly transform the shape, size, spacing, and shade of your teeth, but durable, beautiful Lumineers are the less permanent, more affordable way to upgrade your grin for years to come. To learn more about this treatment and see which option is best for you, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Dr. Alani
Dr. Teri Alani earned her bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M University and her dental degree at the University of Texas Houston. She has quickly risen to fame as not only being an incredibly skilled, caring and talented dentist, but also as a nationwide lecturer on cosmetic treatments like Snap-on Smile and Lumineers. She is a proud, active member of the Greater Houston Dental Society, the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association. She also serves on the esteemed Advisory Council for the College of Science at Texas A&M. To schedule a consultation for Lumineers, visit our website or call us today at 713-621-5141.