Lumineers

If your smile is compromised by chips, cracks, or stains, Lumineers® can transform your appearance with minimal to no preparation. These thin porcelain shells cover the front surface of teeth and conceal imperfections beneath. Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers do not require enamel removal prior to placement, making this treatment entirely reversible. Dentists can place Lumineers quickly and easily without the need for numbing agents, anesthesia, or painkillers.

Lumineers vs. Traditional Veneers

Lumineers are ultra thin veneers, requiring minimal to no reduction of your natural tooth. As a result, you can preserve more of your natural tooth structure. This not only reduces the risk of dental sensitivity, but also allows you to reverse treatment at a later date should you desire to do so.

Traditional veneers are thicker. They require your dentist to remove about half a millimeter of enamel to ensure they fit comfortably in your smile. As a result, teeth must remain covered at all times to avoid sensitivity. This treatment is considered irreversible.

Explore Your Candidacy

Lumineers can conceal imperfections including:

• Chipped teeth
• Cracked teeth
• Worn teeth
• Disproportionate teeth
• Gapped or unevenly spaced teeth
• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Discolored teeth

Candidates for Lumineers should have good oral health and be free from tooth decay and gum disease. Any underlying conditions will need to be addressed prior to treatment. Your dentist can conduct a thorough evaluation during your consultation to determine whether you qualify. Keep in mind that your enamel must be strong enough to support Lumineers. 

Placing Lumineers

The treatment process typically takes two office visits. To design your Lumineers, your dentist can take detailed impressions of your smile and take note of the shade of porcelain you would like. These molds will be sent to DenMat Laboratory, where your custom veneers will be crafted from medical-grade porcelain. As your teeth will not be reshaped in preparation for Lumineers, there is no need to wear temporaries in the interim. When your veneers are ready, your dentist can ensure they fit properly in your smile. To ensure a strong bond, your dentist can apply a special etching solution over your teeth before bonding the Lumineers in place with dental cement. Your dentist can then polish your smile to reveal stunning results.

How to Care for Lumineers

Caring for Lumineers is much like caring for your natural teeth. You should brush your twice twice a day and floss daily. While it is important to be thorough, do not be over-aggressive when brushing your teeth, as this can loosen veneers. It is also crucial to visit your dentist for biannual exams. Though teeth are covered by veneers, they are still susceptible to decay. At routine checkups, your dentist can identify areas of concern, including loss or worn veneers. To maintain the longevity of your restorations, avoid using your teeth to open packages. You should also refrain from biting your nails or chewing on items like pens or ice.

How Much Do Lumineers Cost?

The cost of Lumineers varies on a case-by-case basis. However, on average, the cost can range from $800 to $2,000 per tooth. Variables such as the dentist’s experience, the number of teeth treated, and the complexity of your procedure can influence the overall treatment cost.

As this treatment is elective, insurance typically does not cover the cost of Lumineers. However, many dental offices offer in-office payment plans or accept third-party financing to help cover any out-of-pocket expenses. With its multidimensional effects, many patients view Lumineers as a worthwhile investment.

Benefits of Treatment

For the right candidates, Lumineers offer several noteworthy benefits, including:

• Longevity: Lumineers are durable and can last for 20 years when cared for. 
• Realistic Results: Each veneer is ultra thin and made to look and feel like a natural tooth. Porcelain mimics the sheen and translucency of natural enamel for the most natural-looking results.
• Minimal Prep: With minimal to no enamel removal, patients can maintain more of their natural teeth. In addition, treatment can be reversed without causing prolonged dental sensitivity.
• Immediate Transformation: Correcting issues such as minor dental misalignment can take months with traditional orthodontics. Lumineers can transform your smile in only two office visits.

A beautifully brighter smile can improve your sense of self-confidence and your overall quality of life.