When it comes to oral treatments, there are many buzzwords that can be confusing. The terms “Lumineers” and “veneers” are sometimes mistakenly used interchangeably. As we’ll see in this article, they are very different treatments for your teeth. Let’s discuss some of the key distinguishing factors between them:
1. Lumineers do not require drilling; veneers do.
Lumineers are an ultra thin layer of porcelain placed on the outside of your tooth. There are no shots or drilling used in the procedure. Veneers are more invasive. Since veneers are thicker than Lumineers, the dentist will remove some layers of your tooth to install them. When the veneers are attached, they fit nicely and don’t bulge. Also, as the dentist shapes your teeth preparing for veneers, a rough texture is created on the surface of your shaved tooth to create stronger bonding.
2. Veneers are more likely to look natural.
Teeth are translucent. They allow some light to pass through and have subtle differences in color throughout the tooth. Since Lumineers don’t require any shaving of the teeth, they are so thin that they are almost transparent. The color of your darker teeth can sometimes be seen through them, reducing the cosmetic benefits of the procedure. It’s the bonding agent between the natural tooth and the thin Lumineer that is actually making your teeth appear whiter. This material doesn’t have the natural looking tooth-like properties of porcelain. Though the Lumineers procedure is undoubtedly simpler and less invasive, the end result tends to look noticeably more opaque than natural teeth.
3. Veneers can make your teeth more sensitive.
The procedure for installing veneers requires some of the outer layers of your natural teeth to be removed. This outer layer called enamel is the hardest substance your body produces. It protects your teeth from being sensitive to temperature. Most people experience sensitivity a few days to a few weeks after first getting veneers.
4. Lumineers cause a ridge where the cap meets the tooth.
Getting Lumineers means you can keep all the parts of your natural teeth. The downside is that you’re adding a layer that isn’t perfectly smooth to your original teeth. That small ridge where the Lumineer meets the tooth can sometimes make it more difficult to remove plaque at the gum line.
To learn more about various treatment options for your teeth, contact Accent Dental Group. Our friendly staff and advanced dental technology will provide all the tools and advice you need to brighten your smile. Find out if Lumineers or veneers are right for you. Visit: accentdentalgroup.com.