Differences Between Lumineers and Veneers

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By A Street Dental

Veneers are one of the most popular types of cosmetic dentistry procedures. They can effectively change your smile’s look and allow you to be fully content with your appearance. While researching veneers, you may have come across an alternative called Lumineers. 

The biggest difference between them is that veneers are slightly thicker.

Here’s what this difference means in practice:

Placement Process

Veneers require a bit of enamel shaving. This creates a rough texture on the surface of the tooth and allows the veneer to properly bond with it, remaining in place for years.

However, the process is irreversible since tooth enamel doesn’t grow back. It means veneers are a lifelong decision.

Lumineers don’t require any enamel shaving because they are thinner. As a result, you can safely remove Lumineers later if you ever want to go back to your natural smile.

Durability

Veneers can last as long as 15 years with the right care. Lumineers, on the other hand, usually need to be replaced after around 10 years. Because they’re thinner, Lumineers have a higher risk of chipping and breaking. By comparison, veneers are much smoother.

Cost

Both veneers and Lumineers are good investments in your smile, but with veneers, you will need to spend more. Lumineers are more affordable on average. By not requiring any prep, the entire procedure becomes slightly more affordable.

Results

Veneers can effectively cover a wide variety of cosmetic imperfections, including:

  • Severe staining and discoloration
  • Tooth cracks and chips
  • Misshapen teeth
  • Irregular sized teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Certain alignment issues, etc.

Lumineers are less impressive because they are translucent. While they are a great choice for minor cosmetic imperfections, more serious cases won’t be properly concealed by them. Veneers will offer much better coverage for such cosmetic problems.

How Do I Decide Between Veneers and Lumineers?

Choosing between veneers and Lumineers ultimately comes down to the cosmetic issues you are facing and how comfortable you are with the preparation process.

For example, if you have severe cosmetic issues with your teeth, there is a real possibility that Lumineers won’t be able to fully address them. Even with them on, your smile might not have the look you want.

On the other hand, veneers require a level of commitment that many patients simply aren’t comfortable with. As a result, Lumineers are a more comfortable choice for the simple reason that they can be safely removed.

Getting Veneers in Grants Pass

Veneers are one of many cosmetic treatments that can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Our Grants Pass dentist can help you discover if porcelain veneers are right for you or which other treatment can improve your smile’s appearance.

Take the first step towards a picture-perfect smile and request a visit to A Street Dental now, or call us at (541) 476-9792 for a short chat!