Lumineers: adhesive non-prep veneers

Is there a difference between lumineers and non-prep veneers?

What are lumineers?

Lumineers are a specific type of ceramic veneers used to correct flaws on teeth and belong to the group of the so-called non-prep veneers. The term “Lumineers” is actually a private brand label of a Californian dental manufacturer. However, the term is increasingly being used as a synonym for non-prep veneers in general.

What are non-prep veneers?

Non-prep veneers are a type of veneers that do not require to prepare the teeth. Lumineers, or non-prep veneers in general, are ultra-thin and can be bonded directly to the tooth without having to shave down the tooth surface first.

When are Lumineers recommended?

Lumineers can correct many different aesthetic flaws. For example slightly crooked, chipped or imperfect teeth. Lumineers can also correct various tooth discolourations. Lumineers are a quick solution to correct damaged enamel, white or yellowish spots on the teeth, making your smile look natural and harmonious.

However, Lumineers are not always the best solution to get a flawless smile. More complex cases of stained or misaligned teeth often cannot be corrected with Lumineers since the ceramic is too thin. In addition, both the wafer-thin shells and the adhesive used are not indestructible. For example, Lumineers would not withstand strong teeth grinding.

How much do Lumineers and non-prep veneers cost?

How much Lumineers cost depends on the number of Lumineers and on the dental practice. The price consists of the following:

• Number of Lumineers
• Dental services

Original Lumineers are usually a bit more expensive than non-prep veneers from other brands. Average Lumineers prices:

• a Lumineer starts at about CHF 1,400 per tooth
• a non-prep veneer starts at about CHF 600 per tooth

Just like with veneers, the costs for Lumineers and other non-prep veneers are generally not covered by health insurance since they’re considered a cosmetic and a non-medical treatment.

How long do Lumineers last?

The durability of Lumineers can vary and always depends on the patient’s oral hygiene. The American manufacturer of the original Lumineers guarantees a durability of 5 years. However, real-life cases have shown that with good care and good quality materials, they can also last up to 10 years or more.

Pros and cons of Lumineers

Pros of Lumineers

• fast and easy application
• effective solution to enhance your smile instantly
• no tooth preparation necessary
• Gentle on the tooth substance
• Can be removed without leaving any residue

Cons of Lumineers

• can break faster due to the wafer-thin material
• can be used to correct only minor defects
• discolouration can show through the material
• cannot be applied to all teeth
• they take long to manufacture, as original Lumineers may only be manufactured in the company's own lab in the USA

Lumineers vs. veneers – Which is the better option?

The two major differences are the thickness of the material and how the ceramic teeth are attached. Generally speaking, both methods can be a good solution for discoloured teeth or other aesthetic defects in the front teeth.

However, since the condition of your teeth is a major factor in determining whether Lumineers or veneers are the better choice for you, it is essential to consult a specialist. So in conclusion, there is no general answer as to which option is better for you.

What material are Lumineers made of?

In most cases, non-prep veneers are made of ceramic. For Lumineers in particular, a patented Cerinate™ ceramic from their own manufacturing company is used. According to Denmat’s own statements, this type of ceramic provides greater strength compared to other materials and allows to manufacture even thinner ceramic shells.

How are Lumineers applied?

Lumineers are bonded to the teeth. However, Lumineers should be applied by certified dentists only. The certification is issued directly by the manufacturer and confirms that the treating dentist has completed a Lumineers training course and has the necessary expertise.

Lumineers testimonials

Smile makeovers are becoming increasingly popular, not least on account of celebrities, and people all across the world are after the so-called Hollywood smile. Studies* have shown that in addition to simpler methods such as whitening, the demand for Lumineers and Veneers is increasing rapidly. Nowadays patients are opting more often for long-term solutions instead of short-term treatments that need to be repeated on a regular basis.