Lumineers in Mexico – Cosmetic Dentistry Abroad

Cosmetic dentistry work in the United States can get to be quite expensive. Porcelain veneers can easily cost more than $1,000 per tooth, for instance. The problem is only compounded by the fact that most insurance providers won’t extend coverage for this type of work, unless it can be proven that it is not entirely for cosmetic purposes. Lumineers have become a very popular alternative to conventional porcelain veneers because they require less extensive preparation work.

This is beneficial on two fronts. When it comes to the financial aspect of the procedure, patients can expect to pay a few hundred dollars less for every tooth treated. Where Lumineers really shine is the reversibility factor. Unlike the case with porcelain veneers that must be adhered to a reshaped tooth, these veneers can be applied directly to an untreated tooth surface in ideal circumstances. Even when some enamel removal is required, the amounts are so insignificant that the patient could go back to their exiting teeth if dissatisfied with the look of veneers.

To escape the skyrocketing prices for Lumineers porcelain veneers, some people have considered getting these restorations installed in Mexico. A little digging online reveals that there are several dental clinics in Mexico that perform this procedure. However, there are some cautionary words to take to heart.

To start, Lumineers require a skilled installer. Although they are passed off as being simple to install, a small mistake can spell a disastrous experience. If a cosmetic dentist misjudges a patient’s existing dental condition and instead of removing some enamel adheres the veneers directly to the teeth, they might fall out prematurely. Furthermore, Lumineers can’t be fabricated in any sort for dental lab. The maker of the veneers exclusively handles fabrication based on a mold sent of the patient’s teeth from the dentist.

There’s no reason to resort to crossing the border to recieve cosmetic dentistry from Mexico. If you visit cosmetic dentists within you area, you will find that most of them offer financing plans. If you have a decent credit history and are able to pull some strings with your insurance provider, you may very well be on your way to an affordable treatment.

There are also less expensive alternatives to take advantage of that lie beyond the scope of cosmetic dentistry. Take orthodontia for instance. It may not have the initial aesthetic appeal that veneers have, but give it a year or so and braces can transform your smile into a thing of beauty. Dental tourism can be a great way to save money, but when it comes to Lumineers you want to have your procedure performed within the United States for long-lasting results. For further peace of mind, you can always visit a Lumineers-certified dentist who has been carefully trained in the installation of these thin veneers. Ultimately, you will need to weigh your options to determine which route makes the most financial sense. This will require patience on your part and possibly some sacrifices, such as opting for braces instead of veneers. Whatever the case, don’t be scared to ask your dentist for advice and guidance.

Posted by admin | local dentists | Sunday 15 February 2009 9:17 pm

Lumineers vs. Braces

The question of whether Lumineers are preferred over braces and vice-versa surfaces quite often. It’s not very easy to answer without knowing the specifics of a particular case. Lumineers have the lure of instant results without pain, but such outcomes are not always possible. Sometimes the existing tooth structure requires extensive modification before these veneers can be properly installed. The concern with braces almost always revolves around the length of treatment and post-treatment inconvenience. A majority of patients have to wear braces for a year or more, and thereafter are forced to wear retainers to keep the teeth from reassuming their original position. You and your dentist can come to a solid decision by examining a few key questions.

How long am I willing to wait?

Time is sometimes a factor with dental treatments. Various careers require different levels of public interface and frankly not everyone feels comfortable sporting braces in these types of conditions. If time is a factor in your situation, than by all means get Lumineers. The treatment can be completed in a matter of weeks, largely depending on how fast the lab is able to process your veneers (which usually takes about 3 weeks). With Lumineers, you bypass the inconvenience of having to wear temporaries and can go about your life normally right after you have them outfitted on your teeth.

Will I be able to maintain my Lumineers?

Any type of veneer will eventually require maintenance. Once your braces come off, this is not so much of an issue. You just need to remember to continue wearing your retainers. Cracked or fractured veneers don’t just translate to lost time, but also more money out of your pocket. Unless your Lumineers are still under warranty (which lasts 5 years from the date of purchase if certain conditions are met), you can expect to pay the same amount (or more) for you new set.

How much am I willing to invest?

There can be an immense gap between how much veneers will cost you vs. braces depending on how many teeth you are hoping to get done. Lumineers typically cost $1,000 and over per tooth. Braces on the other hand can cost anywhere from $2,000 – $7,000 for most cases. With the veneers, you obviously have to factor in the cost of maintenance. Their life longevity can vary, but failure within the first ten years is common. Either procedure can be financed if needed.

It’s very important to talk to a Lumineers-certified cosmetic dentist if you are seriously considering this procedure. General dentists are usually not recommended for this treatment (which is usually true for traditional veneers as well). You don’t want to have your sights set on it to find that the no-prep technique is unsuitable for your teeth or that you will require orthodontic work prior to being outfitted with the veneers. Additionally, try not to be swayed into taking either route without a proper examination. A dentist will need to thoroughly examine your teeth before making distinctions, so unless you’re teeth have been checked out don’t readily accept any advice.

Posted by admin | procedure comparisons | Sunday 15 February 2009 1:45 pm
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