What are Lumineers?
Lumineers are a newer form of porcelain veneer that are as thin as a contact lens and bond to the teeth with very little, if any, preparation. With traditional veneers, a portion of tooth structure has to be removed to allow for the placement of the veneer. But since Lumineers are exceptionally thin, very little, if any, tooth structure needs to be removed in order for the veneers to be placed on the surface of the teeth.

If you're not happy with the way your teeth look, Lumineers may be the cosmetic treatment you've been waiting for to give you a beautiful smile. Teeth that are discolored, chipped or misaligned will greatly benefit from the cosmetic enhancement that Lumineers can provide.

Lumineers are one of the latest technological advancements in cosmetic dentistry. They are made of Cerinate porcelain and are very strong, despite their thin appearance. There are many advantages to Lumineers over traditional porcelain veneers:

• Lumineers can be placed on the teeth without removal of the tooth structure, so the majority of the time no shots will be needed. Anyone who is afraid of needles or has a low pain threshold will appreciate this advantage.

• Patients can receive their veneers quickly, usually within two weeks from the date that the impressions are made.

• Lumineers bond directly to the tooth, making the bond very strong. They are also very long-lasting- up to twenty years or longer.

• Lumineers are made by certified lab technicians, ensuring that our Los Angeles dental office patients obtain real Lumineers brand veneers, and not a cheap imitation.

• If, for any reason, you decide in the future that you want your Lumineers removed, it won't present a problem because Lumineers are a reversible procedure.

• Lumineers are usually less costly than traditional veneers.



Although Lumineers are the most advantageous option, there are certain limitations to be considered:

• Lumineers can only be placed on teeth that are in good structural condition. The teeth must be free of decay. Any existing fillings must also be in good condition, along with the surrounding gum in the area where the Lumineers will be placed. If a tooth has experienced extensive damage and contains a good portion of composite, a porcelain crown would be a better choice.

• The patient must have good oral hygiene, with no receding gums or signs of gum disease. Bleeding of the gums will interfere with the bonding process, and if gums recede, the results of Lumineers placement will not be satisfactory.

• Because there is very little or no tooth preparation, a small bump is likely to develop between the veneers and the gum. This doesn't happen when traditional veneers are used. The bump may create an irritation to the gum, and may increase the chances for staining and tooth decay.



Are you a candidate for Lumineers?
If you're dissatisfied with your smile and want to improve the appearance of your teeth, Lumineers may be the answer for you. Adults and adolescents with good oral hygiene, structurally sound teeth and no gum problems can benefit from this treatment. Lumineers can effectively treat a number of imperfections like:

• Teeth that have cracks and chips.
• Slight discolorations and stains.
• Uneven spacing between teeth.
• Teeth that are oddly shaped or pointy.
• Slight misalignment problems.
• Minor crowding of teeth.
• Teeth that are slightly worn down.
• Teeth that are too small in size.


Lumineers are also a perfect way to have a smile makeover by taking already attractive teeth and enhancing them even more to create a smile that would be Hollywood worthy.


What is the process for the application of Lumineers?
Lumineers can usually be applied in two visits at our Los Angeles dental office. An impression will be made and the veneers will be crafted in a laboratory by technicians who are certified for their creation. In the majority of cases, the veneers will be ready within seven to ten business days. The patient can look forward to receiving his or her Lumineers within two weeks of the initial visit to our Los Angeles dental office.

If you're seeking a cosmetic treatment for your teeth and are a good candidate...you may want to consider getting Lumineers. Even if your teeth are already pretty attractive, Lumineers can improve them even further, so that your smile will be stunning. Our dentist will be able to go over all the pros and cons of Lumineers with you and ascertain whether this type of veneer can work for you. Why settle for a mediocre smile when you can have the best?