Do you have multiple dental flaws that you’d like to conceal behind a pristine façade? That’s exactly what porcelain veneers and Lumineers are for! Both shell-like covers are made from quality porcelain and can enhance your smile.
“Wait,” you’re probably thinking, “then what’s the difference?”
You’re not being fooled – porcelain veneers and Lumineers are two separate treatments, though they are quite similar. Keep reading so you can make an informed decision.
Thin Vs. Thinnest
The big picture difference between these two cosmetic dental options is thickness (or rather, lack thereof). Lumineers are typically thinner than porcelain veneers. However, make no mistake – both have an incredibly small “waistline”, and are roughly the size of a contact lens. This might sound trivial, but it makes an impact on the treatment process and the durability of the facades.
Permanent Vs. Removable
Before digging into those details, though, another aspect worth mentioning is that porcelain veneers are designed to be permanent, while Lumineers are removable. Some patients like the idea of a cosmetic dental shell that can be removed and reversed. This is a nice advantage, but something to keep in mind is that this means a set of Lumineers may not last as long.
Treatment Process
Normally, a cosmetic dentist has to shave down a tiny sliver of natural enamel to make room for porcelain veneers. Otherwise, they’ll appear bulky compared to the rest of your smile. If removing enamel seems concerning, don’t worry. Once your veneers are set, they’ll effectively replace your enamel as a protective layer for your teeth.
Lumineers, on the other hand, are so thin that they can be adhered to a tooth’s surface without enamel-prep and still look aesthetically appealing. This shortens overall treatment time just a hair and could be worth considering if you have a busy schedule. However, since the enamel won’t be as textured, the adhesive material might not stick as well, making the Lumineers more likely to slip off.
Cosmetic Longevity
As it turns out, .3 millimeters can make a big difference on how durable something is! When taken care of, porcelain veneers can cover your smile for up to 20 years. Technically, Lumineers can also reach that 20-year benchmark. But remember that porcelain veneers are designed specifically for long-term wear. Lumineers are thin enough that they’ll likely wear down faster in comparison.
If you prefer longevity over flexibility, porcelain veneers are usually the better option. Lumineers, on the other hand, are less invasive and can be removed at your convenience. They both contribute to cosmetic dentistry in different ways, so be sure to schedule a consultation with your dentist before making your final decision.
About the Author
Dr. Anthony Dillard earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and has been practicing dentistry for over a decade. He likes getting to know his patients and finds that this helps him give their treatments a truly personalized touch. If you’re looking to conceal dental flaws with porcelain veneers or Lumineers, contact Dr. Dillard’s office at 972-394-1492.