A radiant smile boosts your confidence and leaves a lasting impression. Veneers and Lumineers® are ways to transform your smile if you have uneven, discolored, or mildly crooked teeth.
Thomas O. Marxen, DDS, MSD, and Andrew Keith, DDS, of Advanced Care Dentistry in Woodinville, Washington, provide both cosmetic dentistry procedures. You might think these two dental procedures are the same, but understanding their differences can help you decide which option is right for you.
Here’s what our team at Advanced Care Dentistry wants you to know about veneers and Lumineers so you can make an informed choice.
Veneers have been a popular choice in cosmetic dentistry for several decades and for a good reason. These thin, custom-made sheets crafted from porcelain or composite resin cover the front surface of your teeth.
We recommend veneers to address a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:
Veneers can provide a permanently brighter smile for those who have teeth resistant to traditional teeth whitening methods.
Veneers can restore the appearance of teeth with minor chips or wear, giving them a smooth and uniform look.
If you have small gaps or slightly misaligned teeth, veneers can create the illusion of a more aligned and even smile.
We customize veneers to match the size and shape of your surrounding teeth, creating a harmonious smile.
The process of getting veneers usually requires two or three visits to our dental office. During the initial consultation, we discuss your cosmetic goals and take impressions of your teeth to create customized veneers.
Usually, your dentist shaves a small amount of enamel from the tooth surface to accommodate the veneers. Once the veneers are ready, we bond them to your teeth using a strong adhesive. The result is a beautiful, long-lasting smile.
Lumineers, like veneers, are super thin shells designed to enhance your smile. The primary distinction between Lumineers and traditional veneers lies in the preparation required.
Unlike veneers, Lumineers are often called “no-prep” veneers because they generally require minimal enamel removal. Lumineers are crafted from a special type of porcelain that is even thinner than traditional veneers.
Lumineers are suitable for addressing many of the same cosmetic issues as veneers, such as discoloration, chipped teeth, and minor misalignments. However, because they are thinner, Lumineers may not be the ideal choice for more severe dental imperfections or for those seeking to dramatically alter the shape or size of their teeth.
Whether you choose veneers or Lumineers depends on your individual needs and preferences. We will have you consider the following when making your decision:
If you have specific goals in mind, such as closing larger gaps or reshaping teeth significantly, veneers may be the better choice due to their versatility.
If you prefer to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible, Lumineers could be the more suitable option.
Durability Both veneers and Lumineers are durable, but traditional veneers might be slightly stronger because of the additional enamel removal, offering a more long-lasting solution.
Schedule a consultation at our office to help you make the best choice for your smile. We can assess your teeth and discuss your desired outcome.
The team here at Advanced Care Dentistry wants to help you achieve your dream smile using the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry. Whether you choose veneers or Lumineers, our skilled team will work closely with you to ensure you receive personalized care and exceptional results.
Call the office or reach out via this website to schedule an appointment.
