Lumineers are a type of very thin and strong veneer that is also faster to apply than regular veneers.
Regular veneers are typically around half a millimeter thick, whereas Lumineers are only about one-fifth of a millimeter thick. This can be visualized as the difference in thickness of a sheet of paper. Check out this blog to get a full understanding of what Lumineers are and who should consider getting them.
Who Should Get Lumineers?
Lumineers might be a good choice for you if:
- Your teeth are a bit stained or discolored.
- You’ve chipped or broken your teeth.
- You have unwanted gaps between your teeth.
- Your teeth are slightly crooked.
- You want to change the shape of your teeth.
- Your teeth aren’t strong enough for regular veneers.
Lumineers are a quick and long-lasting option compared to braces, teeth whitening, and other dental treatments.
What Does Getting Lumineers Entail?
Getting Lumineers usually involves three trips to the dentist.
- First visit: You’ll talk to your dentist about what you want and what’s possible. They might take X-rays and make a mold of your teeth.
- Second visit: Your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel. They’ll then make another mold to send to a lab, where your Lumineers will be made.
- Third visit: Your dentist will permanently put your Lumineers on after making sure they fit perfectly.
Do Lumineers Ruin Your Teeth?
Many people ask if Lumineers damage your teeth. Thankfully, the answer is no.
This question often arises because of how regular veneers are applied. To apply regular veneers, the dentist thins and reshapes your teeth so that the veneers look natural in your mouth. Thinning your teeth involves removing some of the enamel, a process that cannot be undone.
Lumineers, however, don’t require thinning or reshaping your teeth before application. Your dentist can apply and remove Lumineers anytime without damaging your teeth.
How to Care for Your Lumineers?
Lumineers can last for 20 years or longer if you take good care of them. Since they’re made to look like real teeth, you should care for them the same way.
To get the most out of your Lumineers and keep your teeth healthy, brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, floss every day, avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and see your dentist for regular checkups every six months.
It’s also a good idea to drink less of these things, as they can stain or dull your Lumineers over time:
- Coffee and tea.
- Red wine.
- Tomato sauce.
- Soy sauce.
- Balsamic vinegar.
- Dark soda.
- Sports and energy drinks.
- Candy.
Even though Lumineers are very strong and stain-resistant, these dark foods and drinks can still make them look less shiny or bright.
In Short
Lumineers are a great choice if you want to improve or change your teeth. If you have questions or concerns about Lumineers and what they’re made from, contact our office for more information. Call the experts at Smile Artisans Comprehensive Dentistry & Orthodontics at (832) 220-6087.