Lumineers® in Mesa AZ

Have you ever noticed how white and straight the teeth of celebrities are? Luckily, the perfect, white smile can now be achieved by anyone with the help of cosmetic dentistry.

Lumineers can help correct a number of cosmetic issues such as gaps, stains, chipped teeth, and discoloration.

However, many people avoid cosmetic dentistry because they fear that their teeth will be sensitized by the substances used or through invasive procedures.

Fortunately, Lumineers are neither invasive nor harmful to the enamel of your teeth, and they do not cause teeth sensitivity either. This means that a large group of people can get Lumineers without risking pain, sensitivity, or losing teeth.

There are many ways Lumineers are different from porcelain veneers. It is important to consider whether they suit your lifestyle before making a decision.

How the Procedure for Lumineers is Different from Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers have given cosmetic dentistry a bad rap when it comes to how they impact the health of your teeth long-term. Veneers look wonderful and for decades they were used by celebrities to change the shape, length, and color of their teeth.

However, the procedure is quite invasive because the tooth structure must be drilled down to make room for the veneers which are thick. The result is a stunning smile, but the procedure often comes at a price.

Porcelain veneers lead to pain and sensitivity during the procedure. In some cases, patients complain about lifetime sensitivity due to porcelain veneers. This means they can no longer drink hot or cold beverages.

Lumineers are a non-invasive alternative that do not involve drilling and require minimal preparation of the enamel. The process typically involves a deep cleaning and light sanding, which means there is nothing invasive that would cause sensitivity.

Unlike porcelain veneers, Lumineers do not cause any pain when applied on the tooth. There’s no need for anesthesia, shots, strong painkillers, or acrylic temporaries between dental appointments.

What are Lumineers?

Lumineers are a restorative and cosmetic dental solution. They are an improved type of veneers.

How do Lumineers differ from traditional veneers?

Lumineers are thinner and more translucent than traditional veneers. At approximately .3mm thick, they are easier to place on teeth. Since Lumineers are thin, significant amounts of enamel do not have to be removed from the teeth, unlike other veneers.

Another difference is Lumineers are more translucent than their porcelain counterparts. This means that your natural tooth color and enamel can show through. The downside to the translucency is that it may not effectively cover tooth discoloration. If you are considering veneers due to severe discoloration, a traditional porcelain veneer may be the best option for you.

Lastly, there are several differences in the application process. Traditional veneers typically require an extensive visit to your dentist, including numbing shots and temporary acrylics, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Lumineers are much easier to apply and don’t require anesthesia or acrylics.

Who is a good candidate for Lumineers?

If you have mildly discolored teeth, chipped teeth, or gaps between your existing teeth, Lumineers can help. They can also be used as an alternative to braces and can reshape teeth. If you believe you may be a candidate for Lumineers, schedule a consultation with our dentist to see if Lumineers are right for you.

Is the process painful?

Lumineers are easy and usually painless to apply. Lumineers can be applied in as little as two visits. During your first visit, we will take impressions of your top and bottom teeth. The molds that are taken are then sent to a specialized lab where your Lumineers are custom made.

A few weeks later, you will come back for a second visit where we will apply your Lumineers. We will check your bite and the fit and make sure they are perfect before you leave our office.

How long do Lumineers last?

Lumineers are quite durable. When well cared for and paired with good oral hygiene, they can last for over 20 years

Do Lumineers require special care?

Veneers do not require special care but you should maintain regular brushing, flossing and dental visits. In addition, we recommend avoiding hard foods because they can chip or damage your Lumineers.

Are Lumineers removable?

If for any reason you no longer want your Lumineers, you can remove them. Because your natural teeth are not damaged in the application process, you may be able to have your Lumineers removed with your natural teeth still intact.

I may need braces, can I get Lumineers instead?

Lumineers will not straighten your teeth, but can be used to give you the appearance of a straight and more uniform smile. It’s best to consult with our experienced dentist who can help you select the best treatment option for your needs. 

How much do Lumineers cost?

Lumineers can range between $800 to $2000 per tooth depending on the individual’s specific needs. Because Lumineers are considered cosmetic dentistry, they usually are not covered by insurance. 

Can I still eat sticky foods if I have Lumineers?

Yes! Lumineers are adhered to your teeth securely so you can eat your favorite carmel apples or salt water taffy without worry. 

If you have any cosmetic dentistry concerns, call our office today. We will take our time to listen to your concerns and use our years of experience to offer you the best possible solution. We can’t wait to help you achieve your perfect, healthiest smile!

The Aesthetic Differences Between Lumineers and Veneers

While porcelain veneers look good on camera, there are a couple of glaring issues with them: in reality, they tend to be a bit too big and do not reflect enough light.

Typically, natural teeth are not pearly white, and they also have a certain level of translucency. If someone has an opaque, pearly white smile, it may be obvious that their teeth are unnatural. A natural translucent effect can be obtained through Lumineers unlike porcelain veneers.

Another perk to Lumineers is that they are very thin, creating a more natural look.

How long does it take for Lumineers to be attached to your natural teeth?

Since there is not much preparation needed, the process usually requires only one or two dental visits. Porcelain veneers involve a lot more preparation because your teeth must be drilled down and there is sensitivity that may occur during the procedure.

The procedure only gets slowed down if you need other dental treatments before the Lumineers can be attached. For example, a tooth that has a cavity must be fixed prior to beginning a cosmetic procedure.

What are Lumineers made out of?

Like veneers, Lumineers are made out of a sheet of porcelain, which is as thin as a contact lens. Depending on the specialist and how well you take care of your teeth, the results of the procedure can last anywhere between 20 and 30 years.

The Benefits of Lumineers

Because this procedure is noninvasive and does not cause sensitivity to your teeth, it comes with a few added benefits, including the following:

  • They can be easily removed with no damage to your teeth if you decide they are not a good fit for you.
  • Your sensitive teeth are not in danger since your enamel will not be damaged.
  • The procedure can be done in just one or two visits to the dentist.
  • The procedure is pain-free and there is no need for painkillers after the procedure.

However, not every patient is a good candidate for Lumineers. If you already have bigger teeth and want to slim them down, keep in mind that Lumineers may have the opposite effect because there is no drilling involved. If you suffer from gum disease, cosmetic procedures such as Lumineers and veneers are not recommended as well.

How to Schedule an Appointment

Are you interested in determining if you are a candidate for Lumineers? Schedule an appointment with us and find out if Lumineers are right for you!

What is the time frame for this procedure?

Because there is minimal preparation, this procedure often requires one to two visits.

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