Lumineers Archives - Coleman Dental

Will Lumineers give me horse teeth?

June 6, 2020 by drscottcoleman

Every time I think I’m ready to move forward with Lumineers, I see someone that looks like they have horse teeth. But I’ve had it with my ugly, discolored teeth. One of my front teeth even has a crack in it. I feel like every conversation I have, someone is staring at my teeth. So I know I need to do something, I just don’t want to end up with a smile looking worse off than before I started. I can tell when people get dental work done and I can’t afford to blow it. How do I know my Lumineers will be natural-looking and not look like Mr. Ed?

– Sandra in West Virginia

Sandra,

You are smart to do your research before moving forward with any cosmetic dentistry treatment. You care also correct, in that there are far too many botched smile makeovers and many are from Lumineers.

What you may not realize is that Lumineers are just a particular brand of porcelain veneers. They are ultra-thin and do not require any tooth preparation. But many patients feel that the result is unnatural and bulky. Many skilled cosmetic dentists don’t like Lumineers either because the brand comes with the requirement that they be done in the manufacturer’s lab.

Instead of setting your mind on a particular treatment option, you will be much better served to research the best cosmetic dentist in your geographic area. Not just any dentist does beautiful porcelain veneers. This makes it difficult as a patient because you typically will trust that a dentist knows what he or she is doing. But to do beautiful cosmetic dentistry requires extensive advanced training beyond dental school. There are highly sophisticated bonding techniques and technologies that need to be mastered.

Traditional porcelain veneers do require a very tiny portion of your tooth to be shaved down. This intimates some people but this step is imperative in getting a seamless transition between the veneer and the tooth.

A great cosmetic dentist wants you to fall in love with your smile and not walk away with any regrets. Many excellent cosmetic dentists will even offer a beautiful smile guarantee. This enables you to see exactly what your new veneers will look like before they are permanently bonded into place. Ask to see examples of their work and of cases similar to yours. And of course, check out their credentials.

Trying to decide between crowns or Lumineers?

June 5, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I am seeing a cosmetic dentist to close the gap between my some front teeth. They aren’t the ones right in front, but the ones next to the front ones. I feel like my smile has always been unbalanced and I’m ready to get it fixed. When I started looking around online, Lumineers seem like a good way to go so the dentist doesn’t need to remove any of my natural tooth structure. I really like that. But when I met with the dentist, he told me most types of porcelain veneers have problems and he wants me to get crowns. Is this really the only solution?

-Arnold in Georgia

Arnold,

If this “cosmetic dentist” is telling you that he has problems with porcelain veneers, it doesn’t matter if it’s Lumineers or another brand, he probably doesn’t have the expertise to place them. Not every dentist that claims he is a cosmetic dentist has the artistic ability or knowledge of dental bonding techniques to create a beautiful result. So don’t press him out of his comfort zone, or you may end up regretting it. When porcelain veneers are done correctly, they can last for well over 10 years or more. It may be that your dentist is much more comfortable with placing crowns. But, unless the teeth are decayed and require porcelain crowns, that is not the ideal treatment since such a large portion of the tooth must be removed to fit a crown.

It may be time to find seek a second opinion from an expert cosmetic dentist. Most dentists would suggest the least-invasive treatment. Before moving forward with any type of cosmetic dentistry, be sure to check out the dentist’s credentials and ask to see examples of cases that are similar to yours. Best of luck!

My Lumineers look gray.

June 5, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I saved up for months to get Lumineers done a few months ago. I ended up getting a total of six done so that my front teeth that show when I smile, looked great. I decided to get Lumineers because I really liked that there was no shaving down required like there is with porcelain veneers. Well, even while I was still at the appointment where the dentist did them, I didn’t really think the color looked right. I thought they were discolored and the best way to describe it was that they looked gray. When I expressed my disappointment to the dentist, he told me that Lumineers look different in different lighting. He kept reassuring me that I’d get used to them and they looked good. But, I honestly feel like they have never been white. And over time I feel like they are looking worse. Is there any way the color can be corrected? Is it possible the Lumineers company gave us the wrong color?

– Jess in New Jersey,

Well, this is unfortunate on many levels. First, your dentist didn’t sound like he really took your reservations seriously. It is not likely that the Lumineers came as the wrong shade or color. Each order is manufactured preciously to each patient’s specifications. That’s not to be said that your dentist didn’t order them properly.

Anyway, another possibility is that there may be some discoloration on your natural teeth that is showing through the very thin Lumineers. Or it could even be the tooth bonding agent that was used and may be giving a discolored appearance. Still another possibility is that the dentist failed to properly seal them when they are permanently applied. If this is indeed the case, then there could be bacteria and food particles that are contributing to the discoloration.

As you can see, it is difficult to assess exactly where things went wrong. Also, there is pretty much zero chance of having them removed successfully without them breaking. So, this means they cannot be returned and recolored at this stage. Most excellent cosmetic dentists will have you give the okay that you love the way your porcelain veneers look before they are permanently bonded.

You can do your best to make your case to the dentist that placed them. Although, it doesn’t sound like he has been very helpful thus far. It may be in your best interest to seek a second opinion from another cosmetic dentist in your area. Maybe your original dentist will help off-set the cost to have them re-done. Sorry. Wish there was better news.

Fake-looking porcelain veneers.

June 3, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I have been saving up for years to have my smile improved with beautiful porcelain veneers. I feel conned and am so frustrated at how they turned out. I think they look huge when I smile and unnaturally gleaming white. Ugh! In fact, I saw myself in a photo and I think they honestly resemble Chicklets. Will I get used to them? Or do you have any advice? Please help, I’m feeling desperate.

– Rebecca in Idaho

Rebecca,

Sorry to hear that your expectations have fallen short. Porcelain veneers are a large investment and you should in no way have to settle or try to get used to them. Based on your description, it sounds as if you went with no preparation veneers or very little preparation for the teeth. These no prep veneers are appealing but sometimes just don’t work well on everyone. One popular brand of ultra-thin, no prep veneers is Lumineers and sadly, the comments you have made are not uncommon among Lumineer patients.

The bottom line is that porcelain veneers, really any type of cosmetic dentistry, truly is an art. The cosmetic dentist must have the right experience and advanced training in order to do beautiful work. The lab is also a very important competent in achieving beautiful veneers. Have you talked to the dentist? If he or she is a skilled cosmetic dentist, they will not rest until you are satisfied with your smile design. By nature, true cosmetic dentists tend to be perfectionists, so they consider your smile a failure unless you absolutely love it. Hopefully your cosmetic dentist will work with you to make them right. Otherwise, it may be wise to find an expect cosmetic dentist that can address these issues you are unhappy with. Best of luck!

Will a night guard protect my cosmetic dentistry while I sleep?

June 2, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I just spent a lot of money on a smile makeover. I now have eight Lumineers on my front teeth. Now, the dentist is telling me I need a night guard? Is this important? He said he can tell I grind my teeth but I really am not aware of this. I am stretching my budget and feel like he’s just selling me. If I don’t need it, I don’t want to fork out the extra money for it. Anyone heard of this?

– Melissa in Missouri

Melissa,

Cosmetic dentistry can be expensive. Although, it should be assumed that your cosmetic dentist has your best interest in mind. If he has seen hints of damage on your teeth and can tell you have been grinding, a night guard is well worth protecting the investment you just made on your beautiful new smile. An oral appliance helps to protect many cosmetic dentistry treatments like Lumineers and porcelain veneers, or porcelain crowns. Veneers may chip or crack under the force of night grinding.

Another thing worth mentioning is that since your Lumineers are new, they feel different to your body. So many people will grind subconsciously because of that. If your bite feels different, grinding, biting, and clenching can occur while you are asleep. In addition to breaking, the Lumineers may come off if left unprotected and. A night guard will also help to prevent gum recession.

You can expect a new night guard to be a couple hundred dollars or more. But when you compare what you have already paid on your smile makeover, hopefully you agree it is worth spending.

Unfortunately, your dentist should have mentioned this at the beginning of treatment so you don’t feel like he is trying to sell you. But you strongly should consider getting a night guard if you are a grinder.

Is it possible to get Lumineers if I grind my teeth?

May 31, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I have been unhappy with the way my teeth look for over a decade. I just haven’t been in position financially to make the investment in improving them. But I’m starting to think it is time to explore my options. My friend has recommended Lumineers and I think I would like to try them. But I do grind my teeth at night. Will they still work for me? If I don’t disclose the fact that I grind to the dentist, about how long will they last? I would be happy to get them replaced if they won’t hold up. I’m just so sick of the way my teeth look. I don’t want the dentist to tell me I’m not a candidate when I’m finally ready to move forward.

– Louise in Maryland

Louise,

It is very important to be upfront and honest with your dentist. You shouldn’t keep information from any health professional when you are seeking treatment of any kind. Grinding your teeth may not necessarily disqualify you from being a Lumineers candidate, but that information is imperative so the dentist can make the best recommendation.

The lifespan of Lumineers may be lessened if you grind, but there are so many factors involved with grinding, including the frequency, cause, etc. It is nearly impossible to estimate how long they will last. Your dentist may suggest a night guard. This works very well in protecting your teeth, including all types of porcelain veneers. It would be good to address the grinding issue and have a TMJ specialist or dentist help to diagnose the cause. Sometimes relaxation techniques and other TMJ treatments are beneficial in reducing grinding and clenching.

The best advice would be complete honesty. It is possible to achieve a beautiful smile with cosmetic dentistry even with your grinding. If the grinding is also addressed it will increase the longevity of whatever treatment is done.

If restorations are taken care of, they can last for many years. In some cases porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers can last for over a decade. But the key is taking care of them and for you that may be a night guard or appliance of some sort. Good luck in pursuing your beautiful smile.

Why on earth did the dentist put stain on my Lumineers?

May 31, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I had four Lumineers on my teeth from a long time ago that looked ugly, so I’ve been planning to have them redone for awhile now. Well, I just had 10 new Lumineers done and I hated the color. The dentist used a stain to make them look “natural.” I thought I had thoroughly explained that I wanted a white smile. So when I called in to complain, he had me come back in to fix the color. He drilled off the top layer to whiten them, as I was freaking out inside. Do you know what it sounds like to drill away over $13,000?! Was drilling really the right way to handle botched Lumineers? Now, I’m left with dull, lifeless veneers. The shape is messed up too. Is there anything that can help?

-Beck in Illinois (a.k.a. Going Broke and Still Not Smiling)

Beck,

This sounds like a cosmetic dentistry horror story. And sadly, it happens more than you might think. At this point, it sounds like you are coming to grips with the fact that there isn’t much that can be done to fix your Lumineers. Although, if they are really bad, there is a chance you may be able to pursue a refund, either partially or hopefully a full refund. At that point, you may be able to have the porcelain veneers redone.

The first step is to find another cosmetic dentist to help support your cause. The new dentist would have a vested interest of course, since you will still need to have your porcelain veneers redone. So, the new dentist may be willing to put some pressure on the dentist to help you get a refund.

As you select a new dentist, you need to look for an excellent cosmetic dentist. As you have realized and experienced, not just any dentist can do cosmetic dentistry. Any dentist can claim to do it, but fewer than one to two percent of dentists have the artistic ability and passion to create beautiful work. Another issue at play here is that most true cosmetic dentists don’t like Lumineers. This is because this particular brand of porcelain veneers come with strict trademark restrictions, which dictate them to be done in their laboratory. Also, the results aren’t up to the standard of most excellent cosmetic dentists. In the mindsof a reputable cosmetic dentist, the best Lumineers case may deliver an okay or above average smile. They often end up looking opaque and bulky. An expert cosmetic dentist will settle for nothing less than perfection and for you to absolutely love their work. That is the dentist you’re after. One that would go to bat on your behalf so you end up with the beautiful smile you deserve.

As far as your comment about the stain to whiten them after drilling them down, this probably is a result of a technique taught in dental school. Instructors (without cosmetic dentistry expertise) would state that a “natural” stain should be placed on teeth, so they don’t look too white. He was probably taught that if the teeth were too white, they would look fake. But, a true cosmetic dentist will listen to you and deliver results that are exactly what you are trying to achieve. They will figure out what smile design is best for your face shape, personality and complexion.

In order to get the smile you have in your mind, unfortunately the cosmetic dentistry needs to be redone. This time around, choose carefully. Ask to see cases similar to yours, look at their portfolio of work and be sure they have extensive advanced training in cosmetic dentistry. If you find a dentist that is a member or affiliated with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, you are on the right track.

Sorry there isn’t better news for you. But thank you for sharing your story. Hopefully, it will protect another patient from falling into a similar situation with a dentist that isn’t equipped to provide beautiful cosmetic dentistry.

I want a Hollywood smile with Lumineers. Not generic knock-off veneers!

May 31, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I have decided to go with Lumineers because from everything I have seen they are the best option to give me a glamorous Hollywood smile. My dentist is telling me he doesn’t offer Lumineers, but he can give me a beautiful smile makeover with other brands. But I really want the brand name Lumineers, not some cheap knock-off veneers. Do you think if I offer to pay him more he will give me the real deal?

– Serena in Tennessee

Serena,

Lumineers are very heavily marketing by Den-Mat Corporation, the company that manufactures them. Many people are attracted to Lumineers due to all the advertising hype associated with the brand.

You may be shocked to learn that many dentists don’t like Lumineers. They come with strict laboratory restrictions and often times the end result is not what you are envisioning. There is another factor to consider in that you may not be a Lumineers candidates. You also may not realize that there are many brands of porcelain veneers. And also many brands of no-prep ultra-thin porcelain veneers. So there are many options when it comes to getting that stunning Hollywood smile design.

What is much more important than any brand name, is finding the best cosmetic dentist in your area to place them. To do beautiful cosmetic dentistry requires extensive training after dental school. And just because a dentist says they do porcelain veneers or Lumineers, there is no guarantee you will end up with a beautiful smile.

You would be wise to listen to this dentist and learn more about his or her opinion of Lumineers. Now if you absolutely have your mind made up, you can call around and find a dentist that will place Lumineers. But hopefully this has you considering what you really want? If your end goal is a Hollywood smile but because of the way your teeth are aligned, they end up looking bulky and longer than normal, than it doesn’t matter what brand they are. Right? Think it through. Who want ugly “brand name” veneers?

When selecting the right cosmetic dentist, you also want to be sure that you check out their credentials and ask to see examples of their work similar to yours. Offering more money to this dentist likely isn’t going to change the opinion of this current dentist. Why would you want a dentist to place Lumineers if they don’t like them and have no experience placing them?

Far too many people get lured in by the appeal of Lumineers. The reality is, it’s all about the skill of the cosmetic dentist that places them!

Can new Lumineers be put over top of old ones?

May 30, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I have Lumineers and have for years. They don’t look that great anymore. Have you ever heard of placing new Lumineers over old ones to freshen up a smile? I understand teeth whitening won’t work on Lumineers. So, I was wondering if adding a new layer of Lumineers would improve how they look? When I originally had them done, my dentist knew I wanted them whiter but he was told that wasn’t an option. He’s a nice guy and I’ve been happy with him for most of my treatment, but I don’t think I need to keep my “dingy” teeth when I’m sure there is a way they can be better? Do you have any insight?

-Lisa in Michigan

Lisa,

Technically, it is possible to place new Lumineers over old Lumineers. But that’s just silly.

Just for clarification and for any other web viewers reading this response, it is important to realize the Lumineers are just another brand of porcelain veneers. Lumineers are popular, mainly because of the huge advertising campaign behind them. At one time, several years ago, the Lumineers brand was promoting the option to place Lumineers on top of crowns. So, it is possible you saw something about that. But, the truth is that most patients didn’t like them. There was no shortage of reader complaints and the company no longer promotes this approach. Placing new Lumineers over old ones is similar to the concept of covering crowns with them.

If a dentist was to place new porcelain veneers (Lumineers) over old ones, he or she would essentially be doing them over anyway. For example, the old veneers would require preparation and you would get a much better result if they were simply redone. You also would run the risk of the final product being too thick and not looking natural.

This idea of placing new ones on top of the old ones, really wouldn’t have the staying power of having the smile makeover redone either. When porcelain is bonded onto porcelain, the bond isn’t as strong or successful as if the tooth bonding was done to a natural tooth. Think about this possibility as well, what happens when the veneer underneath has issues? Again, it is in your best interest to have them redone. Otherwise you run the risk of them looking funny and they may stain more easily along the margin.

Also, going back to your original question about your dentist claiming that a whiter color wasn’t available, that is just not right. It sounds like your dentist may be a great general or family dentist. But cosmetic dentistry isn’t his thing. In order to do beautiful cosmetic dentistry, a dentist must undergo extensive training beyond dental school. It also takes a passion for aesthetics and an artistic eye to deliver truly beautiful results. You may not realize that less than two percent of dentists will create a stunning smile makeover. So, maybe it’s time to consult with an expert cosmetic dentist that can give you the smile you have always wanted.

Lip stuck on Lumineers. Is this a scare tactic by my dentist?

May 26, 2020 by drscottcoleman

I went into my dentist because I have heard about how Lumineers can give a Hollywood smile, without a Hollywood price tag. Well, my dentist went on and on about how many unsatisfied Lumineers patients he has seen. He was telling me about all these problems, including that some girl’s lip kept getting stuck on them. Is he just trying to scare me and talk me into more expensive porcelain veneers?

– Angela in Nevada

Angela,

Thank you for your question. Lumineers are a particular brand of ultra-thin porcelain veneers. The big selling point that the company promotes is that they don’t require any tooth preparation. Traditional veneers require a tiny portion of the enamel to be shaved down, ever so slightly. This step is important for traditional veneers because it creates a seamless, undetectable look.

Your dentist may have approached the topic in a way that feels like you are being talked out of it. But the truth is that many excellent cosmetic dentists do not like Lumineers. This particular brand of veneers is required to be created in Den-Mat’s (the manufacturer) laboratory. So this requirement limits the creativity and artistry of a skilled cosmetic dentist. Also, he is correct that many Lumineers patients are not happy. Since the tooth preparation step is skipped, Lumineers can sometimes make your teeth look bulky and longer than normal, and it isn’t unheard of to cause difficulty speaking or getting the lip stuck on them. So instead of going to your dentist and telling him you want a certain treatment, you’d be much better off to seek the talents of a true cosmetic dentist that is passionate about creating beauty. And let him or her recommend the best cosmetic dentistry treatment for your unique facial features, complexion, personality, and smile design goals. Even though Lumineers may be less expensive, if you are going to invest in this kind of money in cosmetic dentistry, you want to love your new smile. Don’t settle for anything less than absolutely loving it.

Hopefully, this information is helpful.