Nothing lights up a face more than a bright smile. However, you may have noticed that your smile is not at white as it once was. On the other hand, maybe you have fine lines, small chips, or gaps in your teeth. Both of these can be fixed with Lumineers dental veneers. But, how long do Lumineers last? This is your guide.
What are Lumineers?
Lumineers are a type of dental veneer that is a relatively new option in cosmetic restorations. Dental veneers are thin shells affixed to the outside of teeth. These can be made of a variety of materials to cosmetically fix otherwise healthy teeth.
The procedure to receive Lumineers generally takes two visits. In the first visit, you will decide on your overall goals and treatment approach. Then, your dentist will measure your teeth for your custom-made Lumineers. At the first visit, you may also have a tooth whitening procedure to make your natural teeth as white as possible.
Initial teeth whitening is more common with standard, translucent veneers than with Lumineers, but it can help to better color match your Lumineers. Lumineers cannot be whitened, so if you choose to whiten your natural teeth later, they may stand out.
Your second visit will take about about an hour, depending on how many Lumineers you are receiving. Your dentist will apply a thin layer of specialized adhesive to each tooth and carefully place each veneer. They may fine tune placement as needed for the most natural, comfortable, and functional fit.
In addition to the comfortable fit and natural feel of Lumineers, patients like the fact that the procedure is pain-free, with no need for any kind of anesthetic and no Lumineers recovery period. Some patients say that they can notice the difference in thickness, however slight, but they quickly get used to it.
Who is a good candidate for Lumineers?
Patients who have tooth discoloration and staining that is resistant to professional whitening are great candidates for Lumineers. Lumineers can also cosmetically restore small chips, cracks, gaps, and other minor imperfections. This may also include teeth that are different sizes or are in need of mild orthodontic correction.
If the underlying tooth is not healthy, Lumineers may not be right for you, but talk to your dentist about your options.
What are the benefits of Lumineers?
Lumineers are made of a material called Cerinate porcelain (named after the manufacturer, Cerinate). This material is incredibly thin, less than half the thickness of a regular veneer. Because they are so thin, very little (if any) natural tooth is removed during application. This means that Lumineers can be reversed if you need to. For this reason, Lumineers are a semi-permanent cosmetic restoration.
The thin material of Lumineers also means that they are closely bonded to teeth and may feel more solid.
Finally, Lumineers are stronger than traditional veneers, resisting cracking and chipping better. They are also generally more stain resistant, an important feature if that’s what you are trying to correct in the first place!
How long do Lumineers last?
With the expense and time it takes to get veneers, the question remains: how long do Lumineers last?
Lumineers are beautiful, but they are also strong. With proper care and attention, Lumineers often last as long as other traditional dental veneers: between ten and 20 years. There are a variety of factors that can influence the longevity of your cosmetic restorations. These include the following.
Bruxism
If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, it’s not only your natural teeth that bear the brunt of this extra force – it’s your veneers, too.
People who have severe bruxism may not be good candidates for veneers of any kind due to the potential for damage.
Using your teeth as tools
Just like bruxism, biting your nails, chewing on pencils, and opening containers with your teeth can damage, chip, or crack your Lumineers.
Tobacco use
Tobacco use (e.g., smoking, chewing, or dipping) is highly staining and can shorten the cosmetic life of your dental veneers.
If you got Lumineers to cover stained teeth, take this opportunity to quit smoking to preserve your beautiful smile (and your good health!).
How can I better care for my Lumineers?
If you want to keep your pearly whites luminous longer, it’s important to take the steps to take better care of your Lumineers. Lumineers care is an important part of the whole process.
Follow these guidelines.
- Brush twice daily: Lumineers may cover your natural teeth, but just like those natural teeth they need a twice-daily and thorough brushing. Use a soft-bristled brush and ask your dentist for their favorite brand of toothpaste to make your smile sparkle.
- Floss at least once a day: Flossing your teeth once daily is one of the best ways to protect your oral health. If you are not a regular flosser, start a new habit to go with your new smile. There are flossing tools to make it easier, and it doesn’t really matter whether you floss before or after brushing – just that you do!
- Avoid foods and liquids that stain: Wine, coffee, and soda are prime staining culprits, as are berries. Citrus fruits can etch the surface of your Lumineers over time as well, allowing stains to begin to form. You don’t need to give these foods and drinks up entirely. Rinse your mouth out after you consume them and consume sparingly.
- Visit your dentist: Your dentist can monitor your oral health and the durability of your Lumineers. Make regular, twice-yearly visits for a complete clean.
AZ Dentist is your dentist for Lumineers and other cosmetic restorations. We have convenient offices all over the Phoenix Valley, and flexible office hours to accommodate your busy schedule. Get in touch today!