Lumineers versus Porcelain Veneers: The Similarities and Differences

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Health - Dentistry - Smile South Florida Cosmetic Dentistry

Release Date: March 12, 2007

Lumineers versus Porcelain Veneers: The Similarities and Differences

By Smile South Florida Cosmetic Dentistry
March 12, 2007

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Lumineers and Porcelain Veneers are often confused. The similarities, differences, and applications between the two are explained by South Florida cosmetic dentist, Dr. Charles Nottingham.

PR9.NET March 12, 2007 - BOCA RATON and TAMARAC, Fla – Do you remember a time when politicians and movie stars had less than perfect teeth? Nowadays it's jarring to see slightly crooked or yellow teeth on your television or movie screen.

If you've ever envied those perfect smiles, you may have done your own research and found the myriad of cosmetic dentistry options a bit bewildering. No doubt you've heard many mentions of porcelain veneers and Lumineers®.

"Ever since ABC-TV's 'Extreme Makeover,' we have noticed a marked increase in patients asking about veneers, and more recently, Lumineers," said Smile South Florida cosmetic dentist Dr. Charles Nottingham. "Many people have some confusion about the differences and similarities between the two. Basically, a Lumineer is a type of veneer that requires less preparation and little or no removal of the tooth structure."

In addition to being made of thin, porous porcelain, both products:
• cover only the visible portions of teeth;
• repair minor tooth imperfections;
• straighten and lengthen teeth;
• conceal stained or discolored fillings; and
• are stain proof, natural in appearance and highly resilient.

Of course, as Dr. Nottingham noted, there are distinct differences between these two popular, cosmetic-dentistry procedures.

Veneers, also known as "dental porcelain laminates," are wafer-thin shells that bond to teeth. They are permanent, custom-shaped and require the removal of roughly .5 mm of the original tooth to allow space for the new veneer.

Lumineers are thinner; roughly the thickness of a contact-lens. The original tooth structure needn't be shaped for placement and, if desired, veneers can be removed. However, without tooth preparation, Lumineers may feel bulkier than traditional veneers.

"Lumineers are ideal for minor cosmetic adjustments, but I would not recommend them for major extreme-makeover and instant-orthodontic work, "said Dr. Nottingham. "For example, I would suggest a patient add a couple Lumineers to extend small teeth, fix a minor chip, or change color. For patients who want to close a diastema (wide gap between teeth) without using metal braces, I would suggest traditional veneers because it allows me more flexibility in molding the veneer to create the best aesthetic look. One size does not fit all."

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Lumineers versus Porcelain Veneers: The Similarities and Differences

Contact Information of Smile South Florida Cosmetic Dentistry

Phone	(954) 721-6950
FAX	(954) 726-4292
Website	http://www.smilesouthflorida.com
E-Mail	E-mail Address Protected
Address	7401 N. University Drive, Ste. 207 Tamarac, FL 33321 7301-A W. Palmetto Pk Rd. #303-C Boca Raton, FL 33433

About Smile South Florida Cosmetic Dentistry

Exclusively featured by ABC's Extreme Makeover's Dental Lab, Smile South Florida's team of specialized cosmetic dentists provide the highest quality dentistry in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Miami.

Our cosmetic dentists & periodontist use the latest aesthetic techniques, best materials, and finest dental equipment to ensure you walk out of our offices with a beautiful smile.

We offer all cosmetic dentistry techniques, from a simple Zoom whitening procedure to the highly acclaimed da Vinci Veneers and Extreme Makeovers.