Are you ready to enhance your smile? Porcelain veneers are widely regarded as one of the best ways to hide flaws in teeth and achieve a Hollywood-style grin. However, other treatments, like Lumineers, are also popular. Which should you choose for yourself? Let’s compare these two options so you can prepare to make an informed decision about how to transform your look.
What Are They?
Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of dental-grade porcelain that get attached to the outward-facing surfaces of the teeth. They hide imperfections like chips, cracks, stains, small gaps, and more. They are incredibly natural-looking, and they have helped generations of patients to achieve their ideal smile.
Lumineers are a specific brand of veneers. Rather than being made out of porcelain, they are composed of a patented form of laminate. The primary difference between them and their regular counterparts is their size. Lumineers tend to be significantly thinner, a fact that means Lumineers have a more streamlined treatment process.
Durability
On average, veneers last for 15 – 20 years or longer before they need to be replaced. They are strong enough to stand up to virtually any food, and they are highly resistant to stains because they are nonporous.
Lumineers are also resistant to stains. However, because they are thinner than regular veneers, they may be more vulnerable to breakage. You might have to take extra precautions to help them truly stand the test of time.
Versatility
Veneers are able to correct most types of aesthetic dental imperfections, including very noticeable flaws. In most cases, the thinner nature of Lumineers means they are best suited for correcting minor imperfections.
Permanence
Veneers are generally considered to be a permanent treatment because preparing the teeth for them requires the removal of about 0.5mm of enamel. The enamel will not grow back, so the teeth will always need veneers or another type of restoration to protect them. This is not a downside for most patients — the vast majority are happy with their veneers, and they plan to keep their new look for a lifetime!
Lumineers usually do not require the removal of any enamel, meaning that if you ever wish to have them removed, it will likely be possible to do so.
Making Your Choice
Both Lumineers and veneers have their pros and cons. Ultimately, the one that is best for you depends on your preferences and circumstances. Your cosmetic dentist will be happy to help you compare your options. They are likely to recommend veneers if you want a truly long-term, highly durable solution to your teeth’s flaws. Hopefully, you have lots of happy, gorgeous, confident smiles in your near future!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Keyvan Kar serves as both a general dentist and a prosthodontist (a dentist who specializes in prosthetics, including veneers). If you are interested in correcting your teeth’s aesthetic imperfections, he would be happy to consult with you. Contact Advanced Dental Care of Allen at 214-260-9911 to ask questions or request an appointment.