Lumineers teeth are a kind of veneer. Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of ceramic used to either improve the appearance of teeth or repair damaged teeth. Their strength and resilience is comparable to that of real tooth enamel.
Conventional veneers do take up space, so the orthodontist must grind down some of the original tooth enamel beforehand. He then glues the veneer into place.
Lumineers are much thinner than conventional veneers are, so the orthodontist usually does not have to grind down the tooth before implanting the lumineer. He just has to make sure they fit properly before gluing them in place.
What’s the procedure for Lumineers teeth?
The client needs to visit the dentist twice. After their consultation, during which the dentist explains the procedure, he will take an impression of the patient’s teeth. The dentist will send the mold, dental records and photographs to a Lumineers laboratory which will then make the veneers. He will probably not have to grind down the patient’s teeth or make any temporary veneers for the patient.
The Lumineers teeth will be ready a couple of weeks later. The dentist will have the patient try them on to make sure they fit properly. Once he’s satisfied that they fit, he will glue them into place. Lumineers last for around 20 years.
What are the advantages of Lumineers teeth?
The main advantage of Lumineers is that the dentist does not have to grind down any teeth to make room for them. The procedure is therefore much less painful and involved. Unlike the procedure for conventional veneers, the Lumineers procedure is reversible, and the Lumineers can be removed without ill effect.
Are there any disadvantages?
Lumineers are much thinner than are conventional veneers, and therefore are nearly translucent. This limits their usefulness for treating severely discolored teeth. In addition, Lumineers do take up some space, and the dentist needs to make certain that the Lumineers don’t create a thicker edge at the gum line, for that increases the risk of gingivitis. The dentist therefore must make certain the fit is perfect.
Who is a good candidate for Lumineers?
Basically, anybody wanting Lumineers has to have good dental health. The candidate for Lumineers needs to have any dental problems taken care of beforehand. A cavity, for example, will only get worse if a veneer is put on top of it. Bruxism or tooth-grinding can damage veneers so patients with this condition will need to wear a mouth guard when sleeping so they won’t damage their Lumineers.
Finally, Lumineers are strictly cosmetic. They are used to treat discolored or broken teeth. They can also be used to improve small or misshapen teeth or to fill gaps between teeth. While they can also improve slightly crooked teeth, too, conditions such as a severe overbite or underbite are beyond them. Such conditions are due to jaw problems, and the client will need a completely different treatment like braces.