Which Should You Choose: Veneers Vs Lumineers?

Are you less than happy with the smile that looks back at you when you glance in the mirror? There are many ways to fix this predicament. Perhaps you’ve felt this way for years, but you’re just now ready to do something about it. But, after a quick google search, you may have found that there are so many different options for restorative work that it’s tough to know which approach is best for your situation.

The best way to decide which cosmetic dentistry solution is best for the type of work you need is to have a conversation with a trusted dentist. But it is always wise to go into a conversation with at least a little bit of knowledge and information, so we are here to help you understand the pros and cons and basics of the differences between dental veneers and Lumineers.

Who Needs Veneers?

To begin to understand the difference between these two, it is best to decide if this is the type of restorative dental work that you need. When you have discolored, broken, or chipped teeth, you can become self-conscious about your smile. To fix this, dental professionals have developed methods for restoring your smile to its perfect condition without having to remove healthy teeth. That is where veneers come in.

If you are unhappy with your current smile because you are missing teeth or have severely damaged teeth, veneers are not the proper solution for you. Your dentist may recommend a crown or implant for you to protect damaged teeth and gums.

What are Veneers?

Veneers are a cosmetic solution to discolored teeth, stained teeth, chipped teeth, or gaps between teeth that are otherwise healthy. They are made by placing a thin cap in front of healthy teeth and securely bonding them in place. They do not cover the entirety of the tooth as a crown does and therefore do not strengthen or protect the tooth, they only improve the look of the natural tooth. Traditionally, veneers can be made of porcelain or composite resin.

To ensure a snug and correct fit, dentists must prep veneers by shaving the tooth enamel of the natural teeth down so that the veneers are not too bulky. Therefore, veneers are a permanent solution and cannot be reversed. They typically cost between $900-$2500 per tooth and can last 20 years if they are properly cared for.

Those who wish to see a perfectly straight and bright smile staring back at them often opt for veneers.

What are Lumineers?

Lumineers are not a type of cosmetic dentistry on their own but are a brand type of veneer. Lumineers are exclusively fabricated by DenMat Labs as a veneer that requires less preparation. Lumineers are made of an ultra thin porcelain material and are directly bonded to your teeth without shaving them down, therefore, they are sometimes referred to as no-prep veneers. Because of the thin material and lack of prep, they are considered less permanent than traditional porcelain veneers. But this also allows them to be reversible if you change your mind in the future.

Because Lumineers require less prep work, they are often less expensive than their permanent counterparts, but they also do not tend to last as long, with a life of about 10 years. For those on a budget or for those with teeth that are not severely discolored, Lumineers are an excellent cosmetic option. Not all dentists provide Lumineers, but they may have another ultra-thin veneer option available.

Looking for a Dentist’s Opinion?

When debating whether you should go with traditional Veneers vs. Lumineers, it is best to consult with a dentist that you trust will be honest with you and will keep your best interest in mind. A dental professional is the best person to answer these questions because they can assess the shape and condition of your smile, your lifestyle, and your other dental needs and answer all of your questions.

At East Valley Dental Professionals, we provide many different services for perfecting your smile. We are available to apply Veneers and Lumineers, or we may be able to find a straightening or whitening solution for you if that is a better fit.

In any case, our patients are our priority, and we are happy to answer all of your questions and even offer second opinions at no cost to you. Call us today if you are ready to chat about your smile.