Benefits and Risks of LUMINEERS®
LUMINEERS® are a popular alternative to traditional porcelain veneers. Like traditional veneers, LUMINEERS bond to the facial surface of the teeth to conceal minor cosmetic flaws. LUMINEERS are extremely thin dental restorations, more delicate than traditional veneers. Because they are so thin, LUMINEERS offer several advantages over traditional veneers.
The dental team at Brooklyn Heights Dental discusses the benefits and risks of LUMINEERS with patients from Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn, and Fort Greene. Our dentists evaluate a patient’s smile, discuss their cosmetic goals, and help them determine if LUMINEERS is the best treatment option for their unique needs and desires.
Benefits of LUMINEERS
LUMINEERS are a versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment. The porcelain shells bond to the teeth to address numerous aesthetic imperfections. They are durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of normal oral functions. Additionally, they offer advantages that set them apart from traditional porcelain veneers, including fast and comfortable treatment and the option to reverse treatment.
Smile Enhancement
As with traditional veneers, LUMINEERS enhance the appearance of the smile by concealing superficial blemishes. LUMINEERS can address many of the same flaws as traditional veneers, including:
- Minor chips, cracks, and fractures
- Discoloration and dental stains
- Gapped teeth
- Misshapen or disproportionately sized teeth
Fast and Comfortable Treatment
The LUMINEERS treatment procedure is fast and easy. LUMINEERS are significantly thinner than traditional veneers, so the teeth require little to no prep before placement. At an initial appointment, our dentists take impressions of the teeth and create a design plan, both of which are sent to a dental laboratory where the LUMINEERS are crafted. Patients return for placement when the LUMINEERS are complete.
LUMINEERS are bonded to the teeth with a tooth-colored dental compound. Before placing veneers, our dentist lightly etches the teeth to create a rough surface that promotes bonding. In some cases, our dentists remove a small amount of tooth enamel. Even when enamel is removed, the amount is far less than that removed during traditional veneers treatment. LUMINEERS can typically be placed in around an hour.
Durability
Although LUMINEERS are extremely thin, they are durable restorations. LUMINEERS can withstand the usual wear and tear of biting and chewing. With proper care, LUMINEERS can last up to 20 years.
Reversible Treatment Option
LUMINEERS require the removal of little to no tooth enamel, meaning they do not dramatically alter tooth structure. This sets them apart from traditional veneers because it makes them a reversible treatment option. If a LUMINEERS falls off or if a patient decides to have LUMINEERS removed for any reason, dental sensitivity or weakness is not a concern.
Risks of Lumineers
There are virtually no risks of LUMINEERS treatment. The process leaves the natural tooth structure intact, basically eliminating the risk of tooth sensitivity or oral weakness. While LUMINEERS are strong and durable, they are much thinner than traditional veneers, so they are not a good option for people who grind or clench their teeth, as this could damage them.
Contact Us
If cosmetic blemishes are preventing you from enjoying the natural beauty of your smile, you may be an ideal candidate for LUMINEERS or veneers. To learn more about the cosmetic dentistry treatments offered at Brooklyn Heights Dental, contact our dental practice online or call (718) 857-6639 and schedule an appointment.