A little self-assured grin can go a long way. Whether you’re having brunch in Brookside or attending an event at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, you need confidence to socialize. In a city where grace and hospitality abound, your smile is among the first things people notice.
If you are considering a cosmetic smile makeover, Lumineers and veneers are two great options. With these treatments, you can choose to achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always dreamed of. They both yield great results, but are aimed at different goals. Find out how each option can assist you in making the right choice for your lifestyle and smile dreams.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are used to cover up imperfections like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, or rough edges. Usually, a veneer requires the removal of a tiny bit of enamel from your natural teeth. It depends on how “thick” or “thin” they will be so that they will fit against your teeth without any issue. We all would like to have an entirely new look in the long term. People who are open to having a permanent change in their teeth can try this option.
The Veneer Procedure
Veneers are custom-made shells, typically about 0.5 to 0.7 millimeters thick, that affix to the front of your teeth. Typically, the process involves a few appointments. During the first visit, a small amount of enamel is gently removed from the front surface of the teeth to create space for the veneers. Impressions are then taken and sent to a dental lab, where your custom veneers are crafted. You may wear temporary veneers in the interim. Once your permanent veneers are ready, they are bonded securely to your teeth using a strong dental adhesive.
Benefits of Veneers:
These are the benefits you will enjoy when you select veneers:
- Results can last from 10-15 years or more
- Very resistant to coffee, wine, and food stains
- Tailored to fit snugly and securely to your smile
- Good for treating deeper, more extensive cosmetic issues
What Are Lumineers?
Lumineers are very thin veneers that deliver the same cosmetic impact, yet through more conservative treatment. These are painless and usually reversible. Lumineers are ideal for people who are looking for a slight makeover. They are great for fixing minor discoloration, minor spacing, or symmetry without disturbing natural tooth structure.
The Lumineers Procedure:
Lumineers are very thin veneers, often as thin as 0.2 millimeters. In most cases, there is no prep for this procedure, so your dentist will not need to remove any enamel. The process is generally quicker and less invasive than traditional veneers. Impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to the dental lab, where your custom Lumineers are created. Once they are returned, they are simply bonded onto the front surface of your teeth, often in just two comfortable visits.
Benefits of Lumineers:
Here are the benefits that you will achieve if you opt for Lumineers:
- No shots, drilling, or minimal tooth reduction
- Comfortable and non-invasive procedure
- Reversible as often as desired in the future
- Perfect for light to medium cosmetic improvements
Comparing Veneers and Lumineers
Veneers and Lumineers both make your smile better, but are used for different processes and for different situations.
Veneers involve some enamel removal and are, therefore, irreversible. This makes them a better solution for patients with more extreme cosmetic issues who want a permanent solution. They are particularly useful for concealing deep stains or reshaping chipped or worn teeth.
By contrast, Lumineers are very thin and generally don’t require modification to the natural tooth. That makes them great for those who prefer a faster, more conservative enhancement without making a permanent change. They are particularly appealing for first-timers or people who fear the dentist.
It just means that veneers offer more customization and longer-lasting results. On the other hand, Lumineers offer a gentler, flexible option. They are more convenient and comfortable for people with busy schedules or fears of the dentist.
Choose Your Best Cosmetic Dentistry In Tulsa
At Utica Dental of Tulsa, we are pleased to offer both veneers and Lumineers as part of our custom cosmetic dentistry in Tulsa. It’s important for you to have the confidence to show off your teeth. Whether you’re on the River Parks trails or watching ducks at The Gathering Place, you should smile confidently. If you are considering veneers or Lumineers, let us help you make the next move to get the smile you deserve.
Our experienced staff will help you understand the pros of each option and create a custom plan that works best. Contact us to book your appointment and discover how we can help you make your smile.
