Toluca Lake Dentist Explains How the Preparation Process for Veneers Differs from LUMINEERS

Written by Dr. McKay on Oct 2, 2012

Both LUMINEERS and porcelain veneers can transform your smile in a short amount of time. While these treatment options are quite similar, there are some important differences that you should be aware of. For example, it’s important to understand that the preparation process for LUMINEERS and veneers are slightly different. Read on to learn more about how your teeth will be prepared for LUMINEERS and veneers, respectively.

At your personal consultation, our Toluca Lake cosmetic dentists will walk you through the processes in greater detail to help you determine whether LUMINEERS or veneers are right for you.

You probably already know that LUMINEERS and veneers are attached to existing teeth in order to improve the smile’s appearance. Now in order to have your veneer or LUMINEER placed, your natural tooth must be altered slightly so that the restoration will fit.

Veneers

When you have a veneer placed, your tooth will be shaved down so that the veneer will fit. The average tooth is reduced by about ½ millimeter so that the veneer will fit comfortably in the mouth.

After the tooth is altered, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth and craft your dental veneer. Most veneers are ready in one to two weeks, and you may wear a temporary veneer until then.

LUMINEERS

When you have a LUMINEER placed your dentist will not have to shave off as much dental matter as they would have to for a veneer. This is because LUMINEERS are much thinner than veneers, so they can fit comfortably on the tooth without much enamel destruction. Because LUMINEERS do not require significant dental destruction, this procedure is reversible, unlike the dental veneers procedure.

Both LUMINEERS and veneers are made of porcelain, but their structures are slightly different—this accounts for the differences in the placement procedure. Both of these solutions deliver stunning results—just call our Toluca Lake dental office for more information!