Are you looking for a way to enhance your smile? Veneers have become increasingly popular due to the many benefits they offer and the fact that they enhance the appearance of your teeth. But now they have a worthy competitor: dental lumineers! So, if we talk about veneers vs. lumineers, what separates them?
Dental Veneers and Lumineers: What Are They?
Both dental veneers and lumineers are covers for your teeth that are attached to the front surface to hide cosmetic concerns such as discoloration, gaps, cracks, chips, and more. In definition, both veneers and lumineers are used for the same purpose and in the exact same manner. However, there are certain factors that separate the two.
The primary difference between veneers and lumineers is pretty simple. Veneers match the color as well as the shape of your natural tooth, but it requires slightly removing the dental enamel to make sufficient space, after which they are bonded to the etched surface of your tooth. Lumineers, on the other hand, are variations of veneers that are ultra-thin and require no removal of enamel.
Differences Between Veneers vs. Lumineers
Here are some prominent differences between veneers and lumineers:
- Stain-Resistance
Veneers stand out due to their non-porous texture and polished appearance, which is why they resemble dental enamel. If your teeth have severe discoloration, veneers are the ideal solution, thanks to their high stain resistance. Lumineers, however, are less resistant to stains and may not mask the defects of teeth as well as veneers do. Moreover, lumineers tend to become stained over time and are not suitable for extremely discolored teeth. While veneers win this round, their edges might start staining after five years or so. - Durability
If you want an option that lasts long, you should look for durability. Veneers generally last somewhere between 10 to 15 years and sometimes even last 20 years if taken care of properly. Lumineers are not as durable compared to veneers and usually present a lifespan of up to 10 years. - Opacity
Since they are thicker than lumineers, veneers are made of top-quality ceramic, which means they are highly opaque. This is why they successfully hide discoloration and decay, giving you a dramatic improvement. Lumineers are thinner than veneers and tend to be more on the translucent side, meaning they are not a good choice if your teeth have heavy discoloration. - Thickness
The thickness of veneers vs. lumineers is a major factor that results in all the differences and separates the two treatments. On average, porcelain veneers have a thickness of 0.5 mm, while lumineers are just 0.2 mm thick. - Procedure
Applying veneers is slightly more invasive and complex than lumineers. During the procedure, the dental specialist will prep and trim the target tooth to etch the dental enamel. Then, a mold is created and sent to the dental lab, which is usually attached to your tooth on the next visit. While you wait for the permanent veneers, the dentist might place temporary ones.
Lumineers procedure, though, is far more simple. Since the enamel does not need to be trimmed., the dentist just prepares the mold and applies the lumineers during the next session.
Ready to Smile Bright?
You can consult your dentist on which treatment you should opt for; veneers or lumineers. Our Vintage Smile Family Dentistry specialist can asses your teeth and recommend the most suitable treatment for you. Therefore, without further ado, visit us at 10300 Louetta Rd Ste 132, Houston, TX 77070, United States. We are just a few numbers away at (281) 251-7770