In this post, we’ll look at what makes Lumineers different from traditional veneers. Use this information along with your dentist’s advice to arrive at the right solution for you.
LUMINEERS VS. TRADITIONAL VENEERS
Porcelain veneers are a popular option for those seeking cosmetic dentistry in Orlando. They’re a great way to bring back a smile that may have faded over the years. Veneers have been around for decades, making them a trusted and established option for cosmetic enhancement.
Standard veneers do have some limitations, however. These include:
- The need for anesthetic shots and tooth grinding/reshaping. This can lead to tenderness and discomfort, sometimes for several
- The need to wear temporary veneers. This can add time, cost, and complexity to the treatment process.
- Inability to undo the change. The process of adding traditional veneers causes permanent changes to the underlying tooth, making process reversal difficult.
- Possible concerns about appearance. Some patients feel that traditional veneers stand out from their natural teeth, giving them an unobtrusive or “fake” appearance.
Lumineers avoid these drawbacks by offering the following advantages:
- Lumineers are thinner. In fact, they’re as thin as a modern contact lens. This enables the dentist to fit Lumineers to the wearer’s teeth without the grinding and shaping process necessary with traditional veneers.
- No need for a temporary solution. Lumineers don’t require you to wear short-term dental prosthetics between treatments.
- Cosmetic benefits. Your dentist will closely match your Lumineers to your skin tones and dental profile, ensuring beautiful results.
- Lumineers can last more than 20 years with reasonable care.
- Should you ever feel that your Lumineers aren’t right for you, a qualified dentist can reverse the process.
CARING FOR LUMINEERS
Like regular porcelain veneers, Lumineers work best when you practice good oral hygiene habits. These should include:
- Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Your dentist may recommend that you use non-abrasive toothpaste going forward. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are the best choice for most people.
- Eating a healthy, well-rounded diet. Starches and sugars can erode the enamel that protects your natural teeth. So can alcoholic beverages and acidic liquids like tea, soda, and coffee. You should eat plenty of crisp, non-starchy vegetables, lean protein and calcium sources, and fresh fruits.
- Staying away from tobacco. Cigarettes, cigars, smoking pipes, and similar products will stain your teeth and can cause serious health-related problems.
- Making regular dental visits for checkups and cleanings. Most people should see their dentist at least twice a year. Your doctor may recommend a different schedule, depending on your needs and health profile.
CAN LUMINEERS REPLACE BRACES?
In some cases, yes. Your dentist can advise you on this question. When all is said and done, only a dental professional can tell you whether Lumineers or traditional porcelain veneers are the best choices for you. Please use the information in this post in accord with your dentist’s recommendations. Best of luck and we wish you many bright smiles ahead.
