Thanks to advances in cosmetic dentistry, anyone can have a flawless, perfect smile. Dental veneers are among the most effective methods for concealing imperfections, including severe tooth discoloration, crooked or misshapen teeth, gaps, and damaged or worn teeth.
Depending on your aesthetic goals and dental issues, your dentist may recommend either porcelain veneers or Lumineers. Both options can dramatically improve your smile’s appearance, but there are differences and advantages to be considered.
Differences between porcelain veneers and Lumineers
Veneers and Lumineers are custom-made porcelain shells that are cemented or bonded to the tooth’s surface. Both replicate the natural appearance of enamel, are resistant to stains, and can last upwards of 10 years with proper hygiene and care. The primary differences between the two lies in the amount of prep work for placement and porcelain thickness.
Conventional porcelain veneers are generally 0.5mm thick, whereas Lumineers are .2mm. To accommodate a traditional veneer, a layer of the tooth’s enamel must be shaved down first. By comparison, little to no enamel reduction is necessary to place Lumineers, which is why they are often called “no-prep” veneers.
Lumineers are bonded in place, but unlike traditional veneers, they can be removed by your dentist as needed with no damage to the teeth.
Advantages of veneers and Lumineers
Porcelain veneers may require more invasive enamel etching to place, but they do offer some distinct benefits:
- They can conceal a wide range of dental issues, including large gaps, unevenly sized or shaped teeth
- They are permanently bonding and are long-lasting
- Their opaque surface is natural-looking
- They are suitable for a wider range of patients with bite occlusion
Some primary advantages of Lumineers:
- Require little to no removal of healthy tooth structure
- No local anesthesia required for placement
- Ultra-thin porcelain is highly translucent, mimicking tooth enamel
- Can be removed with tooth intact
Lumineers can be an excellent option for correcting minor imperfections and brightening a smile in a matter of days. However, not everyone is a candidate for this minimally-invasive procedure.
When designing your perfect smile makeover, put your trust in the dentists at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Nick and Dr. Elliot can determine which solution is right for your needs and goals.
Dental veneers in Long Island
Exploring your options for dental veneers in Long Island? Whether you want to correct chipped, discolored, or uneven teeth, our cosmetic dentists can help you achieve a beautiful smile to be proud of.
Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry is currently welcoming patients for all types of procedures and invites you to schedule a free consultation here in our Rocky Point office. Rest assured, our staff continues to take all precautions in response to COVID-19, ensuring our patients, doctors, and team’s health and safety.
Additional Resources:
- Healthline, Veneers Vs. Lumineers https://www.healthline.com/health/veneers-vs-lumineers
- Lumineers.com, How do Lumineers work? http://www.lumineers.com/h2_lumineers_how
