When you look in the mirror and feel unhappy when you see the appearance of your smile, that’s okay. Not many people are born with a smile they love. That’s why cosmetic dentistry exists. Fortunately, there are lots of options that can make your smile look just how you want. Two of the most popular options are porcelain veneers and Lumineers. These two procedures are similar but also different. Learn what each has to offer to determine which treatment is best for you.
What are Porcelain Veneers? What are Lumineers?
Porcelain veneers are thin sheets of porcelain that cover the front of your teeth. They’re designed to give your teeth a new appearance and can cover imperfections like cracks, chips, stains, discoloration, gaps, and minor crookedness. Porcelain veneers can also reshape or resize your teeth.
Lumineers are almost the exact same as porcelain veneers. The main difference is that they’re thinner and they require little to no tooth preparation.
Porcelain Veneers vs Lumineers: Differences to Consider
Explore the differences between porcelain veneers and Lumineers to determine which treatment is the right option for you.
Permanency
As far as permanency, porcelain veneers are an irreversible procedure while Lumineers are not. This is due to the steps in the procedure. Porcelain veneers are thicker than Lumineers and therefore require the removal of a thin layer of the enamel to make room for them. The enamel can’t grow back so the results are permanent. If you have your porcelain veneers removed, your teeth won’t look like they used to. Without the enamel there to protect your teeth, you’re more susceptible to cavities and infection. Therefore, if you get porcelain veneers, you will have porcelain veneers for the rest of your life.
Lumineers on the other hand, are much thinner and don’t require any removal of the enamel. If you decide you don’t want your Lumineers anymore, you always have the choice to remove them. Then your teeth will go back to looking like they did before the procedure.
Appearance
As far as appearance goes, both porcelain veneers and Lumineers offer gorgeous radiant results. The main difference in appearance between the two is that Lumineers are more translucent which means they’re less effective for resolving shape or severe discoloration issues. Dr. Fornalczyk will help determine which option is best for your aesthetic issues.
Procedure
Another major difference between Lumineers and porcelain veneers is their procedures. For porcelain veneers, your first appointment will involve prep-work and taking impressions. After the veneers return from the lab, you will come in for a second appointment where they’re fitted.
For Lumineers, the first appointment will only involve taking impressions. The second appointment will include bonding the Lumineers to your teeth.
Longevity
As far as longevity, porcelain veneers last longer than Lumineers. This is because porcelain veneers are thicker and more durable than Lumineers. On average, porcelain veneers last 15 to 20 years and Lumineers last up to ten years. The longevity of each depends on personal habits and care.
Cost
Cost is one of the major differences between porcelain veneers and Lumineers. You might have already guessed that Lumineers cost less than porcelain veneers due to their longevity, appearance, and functions.
Get Porcelain Veneers or Lumineers in Butler, PA
We’ll let you decide if the benefits of porcelain veneers outweigh the benefits of Lumineers. If you’re not sure which treatment is right for you, please contact our cosmetic dentist in Butler to learn more. Dr. Fornalczyk will listen to your concerns and recommend the best treatment for your needs. Book an appointment today by calling (724) 282-4436.
