Having a bright, beautiful smile can add volumes to your confidence. But, most people are unsatisfied with the look of their smile. Chips, stains, cracks, or gaps between your teeth can diminish your facial appearance. Thanks to modern cosmetic dentistry at our dental practice, you can have a picture-worthy smile within a few visits. Among many options, the most popular cosmetic treatments are veneers and lumineers. They offer stunning results that can visibly transform your dental aesthetics. For better understanding, we will discuss the differences between these procedures and their individual benefits.
What Are Veneers?
Dental or porcelain veneers are thin, shell-like layers that cover the external surface of teeth to conceal dental imperfections. They have unmatchable aesthetics and bear a close resemblance to your natural teeth. They are specifically designed to cover the frontal surface and edges of your teeth, giving you an attractive smile.
The application process requires two appointments. In the first visit, we will remove a thin layer of enamel to make room for veneer placement. We will fit the custom veneers on your teeth on the second visit and polish them to attain a lustrous finish.
Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers offer many benefits due to their unique design and aesthetics. Their advantages include:
- They perfectly conceal dental flaws and deliver cosmetically appealing results.
- They are stain-resistant, enabling you to enjoy foods and drinks without limitations.
- They are highly durable and last for 15 to 20 years with proper care.
However, there are also certain factors that you need to consider before getting this treatment. Some of their drawbacks include:
- The application procedure requires the removal of healthy enamel.
- The treatment is lengthy compared to that of lumineers.
- They are more costly than most cosmetic dental treatments.
What Are Lumineers?
Lumineers are a modified version of porcelain veneers that require little to no tooth preparation. For this reason, they are also known as no-prep veneers. They are ultra-thin, almost equivalent to contact lenses. They are designed to cover dental flaws and give a uniform look to your smile.
The application process of lumineers is minimally invasive and takes less time. On the first visit, we will perform a general oral exam and record impressions of your teeth. As soon as our dental lab prepares these coverings, we will call you for a second visit and fit them securely over your teeth.
Pros and Cons of Lumineers
Lumineers are also a great cosmetic dental treatment for a number of reasons. Their benefits include:
- They perfectly conceal minor imperfections like chips, gaps, or tooth discolorations.
- They do not require enamel removal, preserving your natural tooth structure.
- With proper care and maintenance, lumineers can last for 10 to 15 years.
Since they are thinner, they may not be as durable and long-lasting. Other drawbacks include:
- They may crack or break under strong biting forces.
- They are not suitable for major dental imperfections.
- Due to their ultra-thin design, they may not last as long as porcelain coverings.
The ultimate decision on whether you should get veneers or lumineers is made by our experienced dentists. To schedule an appointment at Porter Smiles Dental, contact us at (281) 519-7200 today.