Veneers are dental restorations that can cover gaps, stains, and crooked teeth to create a brighter and more beautiful smile. Lumineers is one brand of veneers that are more affordable than traditional veneers. These veneers are made out of Cerinate porcelain or resin and are attached to the front of existing teeth to beautify them.
Compared to traditional veneers, Lumineers are more translucent and thinner. Placing traditional veneers can be a long process. It requires the dentist to file down the teeth which is an irreversible process. Lumineers do not require such extensive preparations, and they’re painless with no anesthetic needed. Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers are removable. The downside is that they are not as long-lasting or effective in treating severely damaged teeth.
A typical Lumineers veneer procedure is completed in two sessions. During the first session, the dentist will make molds and impressions of the patient's mouth used to customize the veneers. The shells take about 2-4 weeks to prepare. During this period, patients don’t need temporary veneers.
The veneers are bonded to the teeth during the second appointment. The process takes 1-2 hours, depending on the number of teeth being treated. First, the dentist ensures that the custom veneers fit into the patient's mouth. They check if the new bite causes any grinding between the veneers when chewing or speaking. After confirming fit, the dentist applies a dental adhesive to insert each veneer onto the tooth. Once the adhesive has dried, the dental professional removes any excess cement and polishes the Lumineers. Lumineers can last for more than ten years. The area where the veneers and the teeth meet can be more susceptible to staining after about 5 years. There are some risks when it comes to veneers that may include chipping, displacement, or maintenance.