Veneers vs Lumineers: which is right for you?
Both change the look of your front teeth. The difference is how much of your natural tooth has to go first.
By Dr. Praveen, founder. general, implant and surgical dentistry ·
What they have in common
Veneers and Lumineers are both thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of the teeth. Both can change the shape, colour and apparent alignment of teeth that are chipped, worn, stained or slightly uneven.
The main difference: preparation
Conventional porcelain veneers are usually a little thicker, so a thin layer of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth first to make room. That step is permanent.
Lumineers are a brand of ultra thin porcelain veneer, often described as contact lens thin. In many cases they can be bonded with little or no removal of enamel, which keeps more of the natural tooth.
When Lumineers suit, and when they do not
Because they are so thin, Lumineers work best when the teeth only need a modest change.
- Good fit: small chips, mild staining, small gaps, slightly short or uneven teeth
- Less suitable: teeth that sit far forward, heavy discolouration, or large changes in shape
- In those cases a conventional veneer or another treatment may give a better result
What to ask at a consultation
A good consultation should answer these clearly before anything is decided.
- How much enamel, if any, will be removed?
- Which option suits each tooth, and why?
- Who makes the veneers, and how is the shade matched?
- How many visits will it take?
At Aesthetic Dental Center
Dr. Praveen is a certified Lumineers provider. Each case is examined under 3.5x magnification, and the choice between Lumineers and conventional veneers is made tooth by tooth.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Your dentist will advise on your own teeth at a consultation.