Do you worry about the status of your smile to the point that it reduces your tendency to share it with people you meet? If so, it doesn’t have to be that way. With modern dental technology, you can transform your grin so that you’ll be looking for reasons to smile.
Speaking of transformations, how would you decide between porcelain veneers or Lumineers? Read on to find out as your cosmetic dentist in Big Pine Key discusses each option and their respective strong points to help you get one step closer to a decision.
When Are Lumineers the Right Choice?
Since Lumineers are the lesser-known of these options, how about going right to a rundown on them? They are similar to porcelain veneers but take less preparation. This is because they are extremely thin and immediately bonded to the front surface of the teeth using a special adhesive. Here are some of the advantages of this cosmetic treatment:
- Affordability: The cost of Lumineers is in a similar ballpark to that of porcelain veneers, but they do tend to be a bit more affordable.
- Less Commitment: Because your teeth are not altered before this procedure, your dentist can remove them later if you make that decision in the future.
- Less Invasive: The procedure for placing Lumineers is much less invasive than the one for veneers. It does not involve the removal of any tooth enamel.
When Does a Smile Upgrade Call for Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells placed over the front surface of the teeth to cover up a wide variety of imperfections. They are bonded to the surface of the teeth by a cosmetic dentist. The procedure involves the removal of a thin layer of protective enamel (about half a millimeter) in order to make room for the veneers. An impression is taken and after a couple of weeks, the permanent veneers are cemented to the teeth. Here are some benefits:
- Lifespan: Porcelain veneers can last more than 15 years if they are cared for properly. They are also exceptionally durable to protect the supporting tooth.
- Stain-Resistant: Veneers are a permanent whitening solution. They are harder to stain than your natural tooth enamel. You won’t need to worry about seeing your dentist for teeth whitening.
- Dazzling Appearance: Whether you just want one tooth altered or a complete set, veneers are made to be the exact size, shape, and color to blend in perfectly with the rest of your smile. They are designed to look natural and are not bulky since some of your enamel is removed.
How Do I Choose?
Porcelain veneers and Lumineers are great options when it comes to transforming your smile. The best way to determine which option suits your needs is by speaking to your dentist. You can review the advantages and disadvantages of each one and ask any questions that might arise.
If you are interested in these options or some of the other avenues you can take in cosmetic dentistry, scheduling a consultation to discuss your teeth in detail should be your next move. Your dentist can confirm if you are a viable candidate for a particular treatment and get your smile-changing procedure all set!
About the Author
Dr. Amanda Cobb earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Nova Southeastern University and pursued specialty training in periodontics and implant dentistry. She is a proud member of the American Dental Association. If you are interested in a smile transformation, Dr. Cobb uses tooth-colored materials for all cosmetic treatments and can offer professional teeth whitening via take-home kits. Plus, she can provide porcelain veneers or Lumineers. You can schedule a consultation with her to discuss your options in-depth by visiting her website or calling (305) 680-1553.