Dental Information » Questions About Lumineers
Questions About Lumineers
Q: How are Lumineers different form traditional veneers ?
A: Lumineers are porcelain veneers and helped to pave the way for more conservative veneers. They advertise they are as thin as contact lenses. This allows for little to no preparation of the natural tooth structure, which is more appealing to dentists and patients alike who do not wish to remove healthy enamel on teeth.
Q. Are there any other Lumineers?
A. Lumineers is actually a trademark and are made under a proprietary technique as far as I understand. However, technology exists for other companies/labs to create a very similar veneer, making it possible for the dentist to use the same conservative preparation techniques (little to no prep) as are used for Lumineers.
Q. Is the Lumineers procedure painful?
A. The conservative preparations needed for the Lumineer-type veneer are usually very comfortable. In many cases, I have not had to anesthetize the patient for this treatment. In addition, many times temporary veneers are not necessary. Eliminating this step can also create a much more comfortable second appointment when the new veneers will be placed in the mouth.
Q. Can one get Lumineers instead of braces?
A. Yes, Lumineers/porcelain veneers can be used to give the appearance of straight teeth. The dentist and the patient should discuss the options of veneers versus orthodontic treatment. In some cases, orthodontic treatment is the better, more conservative treatment. This decision is based upon the esthetic goals, timing, patient desires, finances, etc.
Q. How long will Lumineers last?
A. Since it is difficult to predict how long restorations will last in the oral cavity, we have to use average numbers. Most veneers will last approximately 10-15 years. This longevity is somewhat dependent upon patient habits (e.g. do they bite nails, grind teeth,…), how the upper and lower teeth meet, spacing, amount of tooth structure, etc. These factors should be taken into consideration when treatment planning and any limiting factors can be discussed with the patient in advance.
Q. Can Lumineers be taken off if one want them removed?
A. Yes, Lumineers can be removed as long as the tooth structure underneath did not need to be significantly altered. They will also need to be removed with great care so as not to damage the natural tooth underneath.
Q. Do one need to use a special toothpaste with Lumineers?
A. I am not aware of any special toothpastes needed for use with umineers/veneers. I do caution patients to use tooth whitening toothpastes conservatively whether they have veneers or just natural tooth structure as some whitening pastes can be somewhat abrasive. My advice regarding oral hygiene is take care of your veneers at least as well as you would your natural teeth. Make sure you brush at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily and that you see your dentist/dental hygienist regularly.