Lumineers and Gum Disease
Gum disease is an oral disorder that afflicts millions of people. It compromises the tissues which are responsible for the structural integrity of the teeth. It’s development can be linked to both poor oral hygiene as well as genetic factors. Plaque, which is nothing more than a sticky, yellow-colored residue which is composed primarily of bacteria is what triggers the disorder. Brushing helps prevent excessive plaque build up as do regular dental visits. When the presence of plaque crosses a certain threshold, the bacteria begins to produce acids that eat away at the tooth structure, causing dental caries. Plaque build up around the gum line triggers irritation, causing receding and bleeding in the gum tissues and ultimately gum disease.
With all this in mind, are Lumineers a good fit for someone who has gum disease? The question is best answered on a case-by-case basis. Anyone who is actively receiving treatment for a less severe form of the disorder should be a good fit for Lumineers if all other conditions are favorable. In cases where the disorder has significantly progressed, veneers are not the best choice. The teeth are at risk of giving way at a moment’s notice and you could be out several thousand dollars if they do so.
There is a warning in order for gum disease patients that opt for these restorations. Please research your cosmetic dentist carefully before embarking on treatment! Rookie mistakes can cause tremendous suffering on your part. For instance, a common complaint with Lumineers (muttered by those who sought the services of an inexperienced provider) is that their veneers don’t transition directly into the gum-line. The cosmetic dentist has instead left a gap between the restorations and the gum tissues. Aside from the aesthetic eyesore that this creates, there is also the potential danger of plaque buildup. This oversight creates a hard-to-reach crevice where bacteria can accumulate very quickly, exacerbating any case of gum disease.
You can mitigate this nightmare by limiting your search criteria so that it only includes Lumineers-certified providers. These dentists have attended a training program specially designed by the manufacturer of the Lumineers (which entail a more refined installation procedure than conventional veneers) to ensure satisfactory results. You can find a listing of local dentists that bear this certification via telephone or online by completing a quick form.
When visiting prospective dentists, ask for sample pictures from past cases and try to get a very clear picture of what they offer in terms of price and payment options. Insurance coverage is usually not an option with veneers, after all, and most can’t afford to pay the entire balance out of pocket. So, it’s well worth your time to scope out the available financing packages. This is not to say that cost should be the primary variable to be used in guiding your decision. It is not a very accurate indicator of the outcome to be expected. Even those who pay well above the average price of Lumineers for their smile makeover can face the risk of shoddy work.