Lumineers Vs. Veneers: What's The Difference?

Veneers/lumineers are a type of cosmetic dentistry. They are both made out of thin porcelain, and both:

-Cover only the visible portions of the teeth
-Repair minor tooth imperfections
-straighten and lengthen teeth
-conceal stained or discolored fillings
-are stain proof

The difference?

Veneers: are thin shells that bond to teeth. They are permanent, custom made, and require removal of a portion of the tooth to fit the veneer. Pro- they feel more natural. Con- they can't be removed.

Lumineers: are thinner than the veneers (about the thickness of a contact lens). Your natural tooth does not need to be altered in any way to fit a lumineer. Pro- they can be removed. Con- may feel bulkier than the regular veneers.

Information can be found here.

Veneers

Veneers are thin shells of tooth colored material designed to be placed over the natural tooth to improve smiles!

Why would someone want to get veneers? 

• To cover stained or discolored teeth
• Repair chipped or damaged teeth
• Close gaps between teeth
• Straighten and align teeth

Process of veneers?

• Can take one or two appointments.
• The dentist will clean the teeth and determine the correct shade for the veneers.
• They will remove a small amount of enamel on the teeth to make room to place the veneers.
• An impression will be taken and sent to the laboratory meanwhile a temporary veneer will be placed until the new porcelain veneers are ready.
• When the new veneers are at the dental office the dentist will remove the temporary veneer and bond the new veneers to the teeth.

Care for your veneers the same as you would your natural teeth. 

*Veneers are not forever, they will need to be replaced at some point no matter how well you take care of them. 

Why won’t my dental insurance pay for my veneers?”

Dental insurance will only pay a portion of the dental bill if the insurance company feels that it is within their policy terms to pay it. One must read their policy limits very carefully to determine what, and how much, their dental insurance will pay.

It has been my experience, after 30+ years in the dental field, that I would rather have a patient that is on a comprehensive dental plan then a patient with dental insurance.

What has been your experience with your dental insurance and cosmetic dentistry?