Veneers vs. Lumineers: which fits you

What veneers are

A veneer is a thin shell, usually porcelain, bonded to the front of a tooth to change its color, shape or size. Veneers are often used for stains that do not respond to whitening, chipped or uneven teeth, and small gaps.

Traditional porcelain veneers usually need a small amount of enamel removed first, so the shell can sit flush and look natural. Because enamel does not grow back, that step is permanent. A tooth with a veneer will need a veneer or another restoration from then on. You can read more on our porcelain veneers page.

What Lumineers are

Lumineers is a brand name for a type of very thin veneer. Thin veneers of this kind are often called no-prep or minimal-prep, because they may need little or no enamel removal. Some people like that idea because it feels less permanent.

There are tradeoffs. A thinner shell can have a harder time hiding a dark tooth, correcting a tooth that sits out of line, or changing a tooth's shape in a major way. Sometimes a very thin veneer can also look a little bulky, since it has to be built up on top of the tooth instead of replacing a layer of it.

How the two compare

The two approaches share a lot. Both are cosmetic coverings for the front of a tooth. Both can improve color, shape and the look of small gaps. Both need good care, including regular brushing, flossing and dental visits, and both can chip if you bite hard objects.

The main difference is thickness, and with it how much of your natural tooth is changed. Lumineers is one brand of thin veneer, and we are not claiming that our offices offer that brand in particular. What we can do is talk with you about whether a thinner or a traditional veneer suits your teeth.

What decides the right choice

Your dentist looks at several things:

• The color and condition of the tooth being covered
• How much the tooth needs to change in shape, size or position
• The health of your gums and the teeth underneath
• Your bite, and habits like grinding or clenching
• How you feel about a treatment that cannot be undone

No option is right for everyone, and a few people are better served by whitening, bonding, or straightening instead. An exam is the only way to know.

Planning your next step

A consultation is a low-pressure way to see what is possible. We will look at your teeth, listen to what you want your smile to look like, and give you an honest recommendation. If veneers are not the right tool, we will say so. You can also explore our full range of cosmetic dentistry treatments.