What are Lumineers®?
Encinitas, Carlsbad, and San Diego
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Many patients have heard of Lumineers® and are curious about what they are, how they work, and how they differ from other porcelain veneers. Lumineers are ultra thin porcelain veneers used to correct minor dental flaws. Lumineers are made from patented porcelain that is very thin and strong. By using this ultra thin material less tooth preparation is required.
How it works
Like all porcelain veneers, Lumineers are bonded to the front of your teeth. In most cases this can be accomplished with some light etching of your teeth. The entire process can take two office visits and may require no anesthesia.
Advantages and disadvantages of Lumineers
Lumineers are appropriate for some patients, but they are not right for everyone. Advantages of Lumineers include:
- Preserves more of your natural tooth material
- Faster procedure
- May be reversible
For patients with very minor dental flaws, this can be a nice option. However, there are limits to what can be accomplished with this technique.
The preparation process for traditional porcelain veneers allows Dr. Walsh-Cole to make tiny, yet significant alterations to the shape of your underlying teeth before applying the veneers. That means a more beautiful shape to your teeth and smile. Removing a very thin layer of your natural tooth material makes room for your veneers, so they will not be bulky. It allows a better bond so you will not have leakage that can lead to discoloration and tooth damage.
Disadvantages of Lumineers include:
- Bulkier than traditional porcelain veneers
- Less flexibility in improving your smile
- Potential for discoloration and other dental problems
Dr. Walsh-Cole is dedicated to bringing you excellence in beauty and function, as well as long lasting results. For this reason, she recommends traditional porcelain veneers for most patients.
Find out more about porcelain veneers and what they can do for your smile during your complimentary cosmetic consultation. Please call or email us to schedule yours today. We serve Encinitas, San Diego, Del Mar, Carlsbad and Rancho Santa Fe and we hope to meet with you soon.
