If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, you have several options—crowns, veneers, orthodontia, or an alternative your dentist may suggest. Lumineers have become a very popular option. Many patients choose them because of the simple, noninvasive procedure, and because the work is reversible (unlike crowns or veneers). But if you’re unfamiliar with them, you may be wary and wonder just how do Lumineers work?
How Do Lumineers Work?
Lumineers are a cosmetic solution for many dental problems. Your dentist bonds them to your natural teeth to give the appearance of bright, straight teeth in just two appointments. Lumineers are extremely thin (about as thin as a contact lens!) and custom-fitted to your teeth, so they will feel comfortable and look natural. If you’re considering Lumineers, here’s what you’ll experience before, during, and after your procedure . . .
BEFORE
There are many reasons you may want Lumineers. Lumineers can restore the appearance of:
- Teeth that are misaligned
- Fractured or broken teeth
- Teeth that are chipped or cracked
- Stained/discolored teeth
- Small or misshapen teeth
- Spacing between teeth
- Outdated dental work (old crowns, bridgework, etc.)
If your teeth fall into one or more of these categories and you’re interested in Lumineers, the next step is to talk to your dentist. He or she will examine your teeth, make a mold of them, and help you pick out your perfect shade of white.
DURING
After your consultation and fitting, your Lumineers will be constructed to match your teeth’s shape and desired color. When you return for your second appointment, your dentist will bond the porcelain pieces to your teeth. The process is quick and won’t cause pain or discomfort.
Lumineers are like veneers in that they are bonded to your teeth to create a different appearance. They are unlike one another in that, with veneers, your teeth need to be shaved down before bonding. Lumineers are thin enough that there is no grinding or shaving—they’re bonded to your teeth simply and painlessly! This also means Lumineers are reversible.
AFTER
After the bonding, you’ll have a bright, white smile with straight, natural-looking teeth. Your new smile will last you around 20 years or more. Also, your Lumineers will be very tightly bonded to your teeth, so you can eat and drink normally—you don’t have to worry about your Lumineers falling off. Be sure to continue your regular dental checkups to ensure they last as long as possible, and care for your Lumineers just as you would for your natural teeth: brush and floss daily.
If you’ve been considering Lumineers as a cosmetic solution but were unsure about exactly how they work, we hope this helped! We also encourage you to explore how veneers work and how Lumineers compare to veneers.
Looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist? If you live in or near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Dr. Wilkinson and his team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. For exceptional and comprehensive dental care, schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!