Considering Lumineers®? You’ve probably seen advertisements for them or read about them on the Internet. Many people see the gorgeous photos used in marketing the brand and are instantly smitten. After all, Lumineers look like they would deliver the perfect Hollywood smile. Who wouldn’t want that? Before you sign an agreement though, there are a few things you should know about Lumineers.
1) Lumineers is a Brand Name for a General Concept
DenMat, the company that makes Lumineers, says they were the first to create thin veneers. While this is debatable, DenMat has marketed their product very well. “The #1 patient-requested veneer” is a slogan about this brand that might be accurate due to extensive marketing. People see the stunning marketing photos or hear they can have veneers without having much tooth structure removed, and they want the Lumineers brand. However, there are dozens of companies that now make ultra-thin veneers, in addition to labs that make them without using a brand or trade name.
2) Are Ultra-Thin Veneers Right for You?
A single porcelain veneer
Ultra-thin veneers have many advantages, including placement that only requires minimal adjustments to your natural tooth structure. But sometimes they are not thick enough to create an even smile. Lumineers are often made so bulky that they look and feel awkward. It’s important to speak with a dentist who is skilled in cosmetic work to determine which type of veneers is best for your needs.
3) Skills of the Dentist Are More Important than the Brand
The company that makes Lumineers didn’t solely market to patients. They marketed their product to general dentists as an easy way to integrate cosmetic dentistry into their practice. But advanced training is needed to produce beautiful results with any brand of porcelain veneers. Unfortunately, many dentists lack advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, so when products like Lumineers are used, the results are bulky and lack aesthetics.
4) Search for a Skilled Cosmetic Dentist vs a Brand
Like other professionals, dentists have varying strengths and weaknesses. Some dentists excel in providing dental crowns or oral surgery, helping you overcome dental anxiety, or giving you a gorgeous smile makeover. Dentists are required by law to participate in yearly continuing education. The required hours vary by state. Some pursue education to develop the skills needed to do beautiful cosmetic work, provide dental implants that last, or offer additional services, such as sedation dentistry. Others fulfill their continuing education requirements while never really growing as a dentist.
If you want the best results with porcelain veneers, don’t insist on a particular brand.
- Look for a dentist who has dedicated his or her life to cosmetic dentistry.
- Check the doctor’s credentials and extra training.
- Look for credentials from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).
- Browse through the doctor’s smile gallery and examine before-and-after photos of his or her smile designs.
- Read patient reviews.
We welcome you to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our cosmetic dentists at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry.