Dr. Mark Edington is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Lumineers.
Q. What are Lumineers?
A. LUMINEERS® are porcelain veneers that offer a way to a permanently whiter and perfectly aligned smile. I can often apply these contact lens-thin "smile shapers" to teeth without any grinding or shaving, transforming teeth into a naturally beautiful smile that looks perfect for every individual. LUMINEERS can even be placed over existing crown or bridgework without having to replace them.
LUMINEERS are contact lens-thin and are placed over existing teeth without having to remove tooth structure in some cases(unlike traditional veneers) LUMINEERS is the painless, permanent cosmetic solution for stained, chipped, discolored or misaligned teeth.
LUMINEERS can only be made from patented Cerinate porcelain.
Q. How are Lumineers different from traditional veneers?
A. Lumineers are thinner and can be shaped and polished after placement. "Traditional" veneers are suited well to cases that involve extensive reshaping and alignment of the smile.
Q. Is the Lumineers procedure painful?
A. No. However, any procedure can cause some discomfort as we have to invade your personal space. For anxious patients the use of relaxation medicine is very helpful.
Q. Can one get Lumineers instead of braces?
A. Yes. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that Lumineers are the best way to go for your smile. Everyone has unique needs that should be discussed with your dentist before choosing a treatment plan.
Q. How long will Lumineers last?
A. In just 2-3 visits, you can have a custom-made smile that is clinically proven to last over 20 years. Of course, if you have chipped your natural teeth, you can chip the porcelain as well. I recommend a mouthguard to be worn at night to prevent chipping caused by grinding teeth at night.
Q. Can Lumineers be taken off if I want them removed?
A. You should discuss your case with your LUMINEERS dentist. If there is no need for enamel shaping before LUMINEERS placement, then it is completely reversible since your natural tooth structure is still intact! Usually, however, I will recommend some minor reshaping of your teeth to make the lumineers less bulky and create a natural looking smile. I recommend patients look at the procedure as permanent. I have never had a patient request that they be removed.
Q. How much do Lumineers cost?
A. There is a wide range of fees dependent on the skill of the doctor placing Lumineers as well as the location and the difficulty of a particular case. Here in Las Vegas the average fee is about $1,000 per tooth. You should always discuss fees with your dentist and remember that this is a cosmetic procedure- the artistry and attention to detail of the dentist are critical!
