Lumineers: A Simple and Easy Way to Create a Beautiful Smile
Broken, chipped, or misshapen teeth can compromise your appearance as well as your self-confidence. While veneers have typically been the preferred type of restoration, today Lumineers are taking center stage. These ultra-thin alternatives to veneers provide a winning smile without the need for shaving or grinding down the teeth.
What are Lumineers?
Porcelain Lumineers are a popular solution for a range of aesthetic concerns in dentistry. These restorations are as thin as contact lenses and can be applied to the teeth with minimal damage to the tooth structure. Lumineers are so versatile that they can even be used over crowns and bridges. Among the many benefits of Lumineers are their longevity — they can last up to 20 years — and the fact that patients can eat and drink normally after having them applied.
What concerns can Lumineers address?
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Crookedness or asymmetry
- Small or misshapen teeth
- Old, aesthetically-displeasing dental work
What are the benefits of Lumineers when compared to conventional veneers?
Traditional veneers are thicker than Lumineers and require the aggressive shaving down of healthy teeth in order to be placed. This is more time-consuming and comes with increased discomfort. In addition, temporary veneers need to be placed before the permanent ones, further extending the treatment time.
In contrast, Lumineers are extremely thin and lightweight. There is no need to reduce the teeth when these newer restorations are placed. Through a more simple, straightforward process, Lumineers can help enhance your smile and boost your self-image.
What can I expect during my visit?
The Lumineer application process typically takes place over two visits to your dentist. There is no requirement for invasive drilling or temporaries as there is with traditional veneers.
At your first appointment, the dentist will match the shade of your restoration with your natural coloring and features. An impression is taken of your smile and is then sent to the laboratory in order to make your uniquely customized Lumineers.
At your second appointment a few weeks later, the dentist will affix your Lumineers to your teeth with a specially formulated adhesive. The whole process takes around one hour.
What happens after the procedure?
You can increase the longevity of your results by taking proper care of your Lumineers and by following your dentist’s instructions. Many are able to enjoy their new, improved smile for decades.
Lumineers will not require any sacrifices on your part. You can continue to eat and drink normally, even enjoying hard or sticky foods. You should attend regular six-month follow-up visits with your dentist to ensure your gums and teeth are in optimal condition. You’ll need to adhere to a healthy brushing and flossing regimen just like you do for your normal teeth. Because there is little shaving or grinding down of the teeth with Lumineers, the treatment can be reversed if you desire.
What is the takeaway?
With today’s busy lifestyle, more patients are turning to the fast, easy treatment process associated with Lumineers. These minimally intrusive restorations can help you reclaim a youthful, inviting appearance, combating a host of cosmetic concerns from chipped or broken teeth to gaps and discoloration. Speak with your dentist today about how Lumineers can help provide a wonderful makeover for Spring and Summer.
