Lumineers vs standard dental veneers in Chicago: What’s the difference?

If you’ve been considering cosmetic dentistry, you have surely gotten lots of ideas and opinions from your friends and family. One of the most popular and most recommended procedures is porcelain veneers. Or Lumineers. Surely, you’ve heard about both, and they probably sound a lot alike. So, what is the difference?

All Lumineers are veneers, but not all veneers are Lumineers

A veneer is a thin layer attached to the surface of something, usually for decoration, protection, or both. You are probably familiar with wood veneer, which is used for flooring, countertops, and furniture. Dental veneers are very similar – except they aren’t made of wood. They can be made from tooth-colored resin, but that usually isn’t recommended. A more durable and amazingly natural-looking option is porcelain.

There are several types and brands of porcelain veneers. Most are about the thickness of a fingernail, and a little tooth enamel is removed to make room for them. Ultra-thin veneers, usually made from super-strong porcelain, are called low-prep or no-prep veneers. They can usually be applied right over the tooth enamel, and if preparation is needed, it’s minimal. Lumineers is the most popular brand of low-prep veneers.

Which is the better choice?

Are Lumineers better than standard veneers? There is no simple answer to that. It’s kind of like asking if carpet or tile is better. The answer is not the same for everyone.

Standard veneers are a little thicker, which gives them some distinct advantages.

• They are more opaque, making them better able to cover dark stains.
• They can be used to correct the appearance of slightly crooked teeth.
• The thicker design allows more versatility for revising misshapen teeth.

Lumineers are a little thinner, which also has distinct advantages.

• In many cases, we do not need to remove any tooth enamel. Therefore, no anesthetic is needed during the procedure, and the veneers can be removed if you ever change your mind.
• If enamel is removed, it will be a tiny bit.
• Due to the minimal preparation, there is no need to wear temporaries while you wait for your Lumineers to be fabricated.

When you visit Big Smile Dental in Chicago for a consultation, we will be happy to recommend the best choice, and answer your questions. Just call us at 773-772-8400 to arrange your appointment.