Lumineers^®

You might have stained or discolored teeth or other minor imperfections that bother you. Luckily, there are plenty of options and ways to fix your smile. One of those is dental veneers. Dental veneers can be a costly and permanent investment, so many people will opt for a “no-prep” dental veneer called Lumineers. Here at the Salt Lake Dental Clinic, we offer both dental veneers and Lumineers in addition to our traditional dental services.

Dr. Scott Elder can consult with you to determine which procedure is right for you. Call us today to schedule a consultation or to ask us any questions you may have about Lumineers.

What Are Lumineers?
Lumineers are a brand of dental veneers that are exclusively provided only by certain cosmetic dentists in Salt Lake City. They are manufactured only by DenMat Laboratory. These dental veneers are extremely thin and made out of a pressable porcelain. They mimic natural teeth because they are highly translucent. They are thinner, cheaper, and easier to apply than traditional veneers.

Lumineers may correct the following:

• Broken or chipped teeth
• Discoloration or uneven coloring
• Gaps in your smile
• Small teeth
• Pointed, unusually shaped teeth
• Worn teeth
• Teeth that are misaligned or uneven

Lumineers can impact your entire appearance and they are not a commercial, off-the-shelf, one-size-fits-all application. This is why you must consult with Dr. Scott Elder to determine whether Lumineers are right for you. Dr. Elder will take into account your oral health and your goals in regards to your appearance along with many other considerations.

What Is The Difference Between Dental Veneers and Lumineers?
Traditional veneers often require extensive prep work, including grinding down much of the enamel. Lumineers do not, which is why they are referred to as “no-prep” veneers. Because there is less prep work for Lumineers and because they require fewer dental visits, Lumineers are less expensive than traditional dental veneers. Most Lumineers are reversible whereas traditional veneers are permanent changes and will need to be replaced every twenty years or so. Lumineers do not last as long as traditional veneers.

Am I A Candidate For Lumineers?
Some patients are not good candidates for Lumineers. Certain oral health issues may require further dental work or your situation may require traditional veneers instead. 

Here are a few issues that might prevent you from getting Lumineers:

• Decaying or loose teeth
• Teeth that need fillings or root canals
• Crooked or misaligned teeth that need orthodontics
• Gum disease

During your consultation with Dr. Elder, he will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and determine your eligibility.

We will work hard to help you become eligible for Lumineers. Not only can we provide you with the care you need to restore your oral health, we can provide some orthodontic services such as Invisalign. If we are not able to provide you with the orthodontic specialty you need, we will refer you to one of our trusted specialists

How Much Do Lumineers Cost?
While Lumineers are less expensive than dental veneers, each case is unique. When you schedule your consultation, we will provide you with an estimate once we analyze your individual case. There are many variables that will have an impact on the final cost of your veneers.

How Do You Apply Lumineers?
Applying Lumineers is less extensive than regular traditional dental veneers, but it still requires more than one appointment. Most Lumineers applications can be completed with three appointments:

• Initial consultation
• Mold and fitting
• Final application

During your consultation, Dr. Elder will clean your teeth and take X-rays. You will receive guidance and an estimate of cost.

If you decide to move forward, your second appointment will include taking a mold which will be sent to a lab. You may receive some preparation work but you won’t need a temporary veneer while waiting for your Lumineers to return from the lab.

We send your mold to the lab and will call you to schedule your final appointment when they are ready.

At your final appointment, we will apply the bonding cement and the veneer. First, we will carefully clean your tooth so no bacteria remains which could decay your tooth. Then we will apply the bonding cement and the veneer. An ultraviolet light will be applied to harden the cement immediately. Finally, we clean your teeth and remove any excess cement.

What About Aftercare? How Do I Take Care Of My Lumineers?
Caring for your teeth is much like taking care of the traditional veneers. While  Lumineers are marketed to last for twenty years, most only last about ten years at the longest and that is with optimal care and conditions.

After your Lumineers are applied, you won’t need to wait to eat or drink. Your gums may feel sore, but you may take ibuprofen and apply ice to the area to alleviate any pain. To care for your Lumineers, continue to practice good oral hygiene which includes brushing and flossing your teeth.

Don’t chew on hard objects such as ice or your fingernails and don’t open packages with your teeth. If you are prone to grinding your teeth at night or you play sports, invest in a mouthguard to wear at night or while playing. 

How Long Do Lumineers Last?
No-prep veneers like Lumineers generally last 5-7 years, however they can last as long as ten years. Traditional veneers last years longer and their permanence is the reason some people prefer to receive traditional veneers.