Lumineers are a thin porcelain shell that have been designed to fit your teeth perfectly. Each Lumineer is bonded to the surface of one of your teeth, covering the visible areas of it. As a result, when you smile, all that you see are the Lumineers instead of your natural teeth.

When you have stained, cracked, or chipped teeth, you need to decide whether you want to replace them or use Lumineers to restore them. At Elliott.N.Abrams D.D.S, we realize the many benefits of keeping your natural teeth intact and recommend that you select the restoration option whenever possible.

Lumineers are a popular choice for replacing defective enamel and improving the appearance of stained or dull teeth. Similar to dental veneers, Lumineers are ultra-thin porcelain strips placed over your natural teeth, effectively hiding damage, stains, and imperfections, and giving your teeth a perfectly shaped and bright appearance. For this reason, Lumineers can be used to –

• Close gaps in between your teeth
• Alter the shape and size of your teeth so that they are symmetrical
• Cover dark stains
• Make your teeth look uniform
• Give you a bright and brilliant smile

Patients often ask why they should choose Lumineers over traditional dental veneers. The key difference is that veneers require removing a portion of your enamel to ensure they lay flat, permanently altering your teeth. This process can be uncomfortable and leaves your teeth dependent on a dental restoration. In contrast, Lumineers are as thin as a contact lens and can be placed without removing enamel, making the process more comfortable, quicker, and reversible. Many of our Los Angeles patients prefer Lumineers for these reasons.

Lumineers are unique in that they are approximately 0.2 millimeters and highly translucent. This allows them to replicate the natural appearance of a tooth. Another advantage to using Lumineers, is that they are durable and remain resilient, lasting in some cases over 20 years. This can be far longer than other dental restorations. Additionally, with Lumineers there are typically no shots or need to use the dental drill.

After deciding to improve your smile with Lumineers, you'll need two visits to our office. During the first visit, we'll take impressions of your teeth, along with measurements and photos, to ensure a perfect fit. Unlike traditional veneers, no drilling or shots are needed, and you won't have to wear temporary acrylics. The first visit is primarily for consultation and to ensure the Lumineers match your desired color and fit. The Lumineers will be custom-made in the lab, and at your second appointment, they'll be fitted and bonded into place for a natural look.

Note: Lumineers function like your natural teeth, with no dietary restrictions. As long as you maintain good oral hygiene, they can last for years.