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

Cerinate Lumineers in Boston

The historic city of Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and boats a population of over half a million people. To accommodate the aesthetic needs of dental patients in the area, Bostonians have a number of competent cosmetic dentists to choose from. Cosmetic dentistry today is nothing like it was a few years ago, let alone a decade ago, which is why its important to find a provider that is at the cusp of current dental technology. One way of doing so is by checking whether or not a dentist is accredited by recognized organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. These organizations often have demanding membership requirements, letting only the highest caliber of cosmetic dentists join following an extensive and protracted assessment process composed of written and hands-on modules.

Dr. Isaac V. Perle from Rofe Dental Associates based in Brookline, Massachusetts is a provider of Lumineers and other restorative dental work in the Boston area. As his credentials show, Dr. Perle has a seasoned background in dentistry and an avid interest in philanthropy. Of the patients that have conveyed their sentiments about Dr. Perle online, all have been resoundingly positive. One reviewer commented on how the Dr. Perle was quick to respond to a cracked tooth which would have otherwise derailed the patients orthodontic course of treatment, which he quickly repaired with a tooth bonding procedure. According to the reviews, he is also very responsive to anxiety-ridden patients who haven’t visited the dentist in many years. Dr Perle is a Lumineers-certified dentist that has successfully outfitted patients suffering from an array of dental disfigurements with these thin veneers. His office offers financing for this procedure and at the time of this writing a free consultation for the procedure was available.

Dr. Alla Agamov DMD is but another cosmetic dentist in nearby Sharon, MA that offers the Lumineers procedure to her patients. Trained in general dentistry from Boston University, she has expanded her knowledge on aesthetic dentistry from various training programs she has attended throughout the years. Dr. Agamov’s office offers patients what is known as a “smile assessment.” During this evaluation, the doctor discusses the patient’s goals and creates a treatment plan for them that may entail restorations like Lumineers and dental implants, or orthodontic work through the use of Invisalign. CareCredit is welcome at this office if you are approved for financing through the agency. You can borrow as much as $25,000 towards your dental work, pending the outcome of a credit check.

Steven J. Levitt DMD is a seasoned provider of Lumineers in the Boston area. This Boston cosmetic dentist offers the most sought after procedures in the aesthetic dentistry arena, including conventional porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and dental implants. With over fifteen years of experience and an ongoing commitment to remain on the edge of dental technology, Dr. Levitt is able to provide his patients with an exceptional level of care. He has been recognized by many times over by the Consumers Research Council of America. Dr. Levitt’s office is located in Newton, MA.

Posted by admin | local dentists | Tuesday 15 September 2009 2:19 pm
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