Lumineers

Lumineers are a special type of dental restoration developed and marketed by Den-Mat, LLC. These veneers are fabricated of a Cerinate (R) porcelain, which has a crystalline component that provides increased durability and thermal expansion. The concentration of this component (Leucite) can be regulated during the manufacture of porcelain restorations through various means, including multiple firings of the porcelain powder. This high concentration of lecuite facilitates the extra-thin fabrication of Lumineers, which at their thinnest measure an astounding .2 mm. In comparison, dental veneers can be as thick as .8 mm. The extent of tooth structure removal required during the procedure is a direct function of the actual bulk of the veneers and some additional factors.

Most dental patients are intrigued by Lumineers because they promise a beautiful smile through non-invasive means. The proposition of no shots or drilling (and as a consequence no longstanding commitment to the veneers) is very appealing to most people. In the United States alone, nearly 80% of the population exhibits some degree of dental fear. In the absence of ideal conditions, however, the “no-prep” technique (as the manufacturer of Lumineers has dubbed the least invasive variant of the procedure), is not possible. For instance, crowding teeth, malrotation, and misalignment may warrant some preparation. The next progression in tooth preparation only requires slight enamel removal (.3mm to .5mm). Fortunately, this too can be performed painlessly without the aid of anesthesia. The most invasive technique is reserved for patients who want a thicker set of Lumineers. Temporaries will need to be worn in these circumstances, where as much as 2mm of tooth enamel may need to be removed. As the lab is fabricating your set of veneers (a process which could take up to three weeks), these temporaries will protect your teeth against decay and diminish any tooth sensitivity.

The results you can achieve using Lumineers can be spectacular, provided you have them outfitted by a dentist who is experienced and comfortable with the procedure. These veneers are much more difficult to master due to the restrictive nature of the procedure as far as enamel removal is concerned. This goes to explain the extreme opinions circulating online and elsewhere about the product. Some are extremely happy with the results, while others incredibly frustrated. It’s not terribly difficult to distinguish which group spent the most time searching for a dentist.

The most prevalent complaints about Lumineers center around the veneers becoming dislodged, having an overly unnatural appearance, or becoming stained. These all reinforce the importance of choosing your provider carefully. Lumineers that pry off unexpectedly and for no apparent reason are usually the result of insufficient tooth preparation. A bulky smile is again indicative of a dentist who has not mastered complexities involved in the procedure. Finally, stains manifest when installation is poorly executed, allowing for excess bonding agent to remain on the edges of the teeth. This cement can absorb stains, making for an unsightly looking smile.

The official Lumineers website hosts a form that you can complete to receive information about Lumineers-certified dentists in your area. Alternatively, you can call the listed phone number. These cosmetic dentists have received formal instruction in the procedure and are solid bets.

As far as cost is concerned, expect to pay upwards of $1,000 per tooth. There will be some fluctuations according to where you reside, but the costs generally falls between several hundred dollars and $1,000. Insurance companies cover Lumineers on an infrequent basis. If you sustained an injury from an accident, you may qualify for coverage. In addition, Lumineers may be used in place of other restorations, like crowns, in certain circumstances. Talk to your dental insurance provider for details. Lumineers, like other cosmetic dentistry procedures, can be financed through your dentist’s office. The specific terms can vary.

The product comes with a five year limited warranty that requires patients to attend regular checkups and cleanings. It only protects against product defects. Your dentist will have to install the veneers per the recommended guidelines and using the specified products in order for your warranty to remain valid.

The only way to find out how good of a candidate your are for Lumineers is to schedule an appointment with a certified cosmetic dentist. Your oral health will be assessed and your dentist will present you with potential courses of treatment. So, if you’ve been contemplating a dental makeover, there is no better time to act than today.

Posted by admin | overview | Saturday 17 October 2009 8:52 pm

Does Insurance Cover Lumineers?

Any procedure involving dental restorations can be an expensive one. Dental veneers, crowns, and implants all qualify as expensive. Obviously, it is to your best interest to see whether or not your provider will cover the cost of Lumineers. Although it is technically considered a cosmetic procedure, there are some situations in which your insurance company may make exceptions.

If your teeth were damaged as a result of an accident, for instance, you may be compensated for part of the expense. Lumineers can help repair tooth chips or any other dental injuries which you may have sustained. Your provider will most likely cover at most 50% of the procedure. A quick phone call should reveal the actual percentage of coverage. This is a disappointment for the many who pay exorbitant insurance premiums, however it still translates to less out of pocket expense. Always take what you can get.

If you had a pre-existing restoration (such as a crown or filling) that failed for no other reason than old age, you may be able to get coverage for your Lumineers. Crowns can actually cost far more than Lumineers, so your insurance company shouldn’t mind picking up a portion of the tab. It will be up to your cosmetic dentist to properly assess the situation and determine which restoration is most suitable. If the tooth structure is susceptible to decay, a dental crown may be the way to go. The results can look just as spectacular with a crown if the veneers are a no-go.

Some doctors may agree to grant you a discount if you are having multiple procedures performed at once. But, prospective patients should understand that price is never a solid basis for selecting a specific dentist. These veneers are far more difficult to craft for natural looking results, especially when no tooth preparation is performed beforehand. Lumineers-certified providers have been specially trained with these extra thin veneers. There are thousands of providers in the United States which are all a phone call away. The official Lumineers site has a search function that allows you to locate cosmetic dentists within your nearby area. The general consensus is that you should avoid going to a general dentist for the procedure. It is already complicated enough for cosmetic dentists by its minimal prep nature.

If you can’t obtain insurance coverage nor discounts, persevere and don’t let your financial limitations deter you. Dental offices often provide flexible payment plans through financing companies like CareCredit, which can cover treatments in excess of $25,000. Well qualified patients can obtain financing for their Lumineers with 0% interest for up to 18 months (according to the CareCredit website). Low-interest plans are available for terms up to 60 months. Many of these companies provide convenient features like instant online approval, which can get you in and out the cosmetic dentist’s office much quicker. Visit your local cosmetic dentist’s office today for information pertaining to the financing company which they use as well as what payment schedules and rates you may qualify for.

Posted by admin | faq | Wednesday 15 October 2008 5:09 pm