Improving a damaged or unattractive smile is not just for celebrities. Many people today choose to change their smile by hiding problems like discolorations, gaps, chips, cracks, or crooked teeth. Two common ways to improve the appearance of your smile is with dental veneers or lumineers. The two kinds of restorations are similar, but they do have some differences to consider.
Description
Veneers are most often made of porcelain. They look very natural, resist stains, and are strong. They serve to strengthen the exterior of a damaged tooth, hide flaws, and can lengthen teeth as desired. Lumineers are a newer restoration and function similarly to veneers, providing many of the same benefits. The main difference is that lumineers are even thinner than veneers, compared in thickness to a contact lens.
Application
The process for getting veneers and lumineers is quite similar. Both require at least two dental visits. At the first visit, any preparation work will be performed and models will be made of the teeth so that the customized restorations can be created. The second visit involves fitting and attaching the restoration, and then trimming, shaping, and adjusting as needed. The main difference between applying the two types of restorations is that veneers require reshaping the teeth and shaving off a small amount to ensure proper attachment of the veneers. Some of the natural tooth enamel is lost in the application process. However, lumineers do not require shaving tooth enamel. Lumineers are attached on top the teeth without any alterations to the original teeth.
Durability
Veneers are not usually able to be repaired if they receive damage like chipping or cracking. They must be completely replaced in that case. With usual wear, veneers should be replaced every 5 to 10 years. The durability of lumineers is very good and may last up to 20 years.
Dentist in Newport Beach, CA that offers porcelain veneers and lumineers.
