Dr. Jacob Grapevine offers Lumineers® as a cosmetic dentistry option in Plano, TX. Lumineers® are a unique way to improve your smile, offering an alternative to traditional porcelain veneers. One of the biggest advantages of Lumineers is that they require little to no removal of healthy tooth structure, which many patients prefer.
Unlike porcelain veneers, which involve removing some of the tooth’s surface, Lumineers are extremely thin, like a contact lens, and are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can even be removed later if you choose. Some of the key benefits of Lumineers include:
- No need to shave down your teeth
- Natural-looking appearance
- Comfortable fit, feeling like real teeth
- Improves the look of misshaped front teeth
- Closes small gaps between teeth
- Resistant to stains over time
- Durable and long-lasting
Lumineers® vs. Porcelain Veneers vs. Cosmetic Bonding
Dr. Grapevine offers all three treatments in our Plano office. He will work with you to recommend the best choice based on your individual needs and goals. While cosmetic bonding is a fast and affordable option, dental veneers can provide a more long-lasting solution that meets your smile goals.
Lumineers stand out as the only choice that requires little or no tooth preparation. Because they are so thin, there’s no need for extensive grinding, which can cause discomfort and anxiety for some patients. After Lumineers are placed, you will feel little sensitivity, and they will feel natural right away!
To learn more about porcelain veneers and cosmetic bonding, contact our office. You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Grapevine to find out which treatment is the right fit for you.
What to Expect: Lumineers® Treatment
Getting Lumineers® takes just two visits to our office, and the whole process is generally pain-free with no downtime. During your first visit, we will prepare your teeth and take impressions. Since Lumineers are as thin as contact lenses, Dr. Grapevine may not need to remove any tooth structure at all.
If some tooth reduction is needed, it will only be a small amount to ensure the veneers fit comfortably. Lumineers are sometimes called “no-prep” or “minimal-prep” veneers because of how little work the dentist will do to the teeth. In some cases, the dentist will place temporary veneers while you wait for your custom Lumineers to be made in a dental lab.
At your second visit, your custom Lumineers will be permanently attached. We will set them in place with a curing light and then polish them for a natural shine and smooth finish.
Lumineers® can treat:
- Worn-down teeth
- Small teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Misshaped teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth
Lumineers® FAQs
Are Lumineers better than porcelain veneers?
It depends on your needs. Lumineers are a type of veneer, often called “no-prep veneers” because they require less dental work to apply. They are best for minor cosmetic fixes rather than more serious restorative issues. With good oral care, Lumineers can give you a healthy, beautiful smile for many years.
Are Lumineers permanent?
No, Lumineers are not permanent. Your dentist can safely remove them without harming your natural teeth. While they last a long time with proper care, they are still susceptible to damage and may need replacement eventually.
Can Lumineers protect your teeth from cavities?
No, Lumineers don’t protect against cavities. Though they offer some protection from bacteria, the teeth underneath can still develop plaque and tartar. We can recommend other treatments to help prevent cavities. Dr. Grapevine will determine the best plan for your dental needs.
Call us today or request a dental exam online to learn more about Lumineers or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Grapevine.