Lumineers are a great way of getting dental veneers but still preserving the tooth structure.  This modern addition to cosmetic dentistry is an exclusive product of the DenMat Lab.  The Lumineers brand is often preferred over traditional veneers by patients and dentists because they’re thinner and easier to place on the teeth.  Also, it is possible to remove Lumineers, and the teeth are still intact and strong, and will look just like before.

Lumineers are a very thin type of a porcelain dental veneer, comparable in thickness to a contact lens. While traditional veneers are typically about 0.5mm thick, the approximate thickness for this type of veneer is 0.2mm, although it may vary according to each case, and they are highly translucent, allowing them to replicate the natural appearance of enamel.

A dental veneer is a highly polished layer of porcelain or composite that is bonded to the surface of the front teeth, to improve aesthetics.  They deliver great results when teeth appear stained, worn or chipped, have structural defects like gaps or unflattering positions, or are misshapen.  If you don’t have a severe problem, Lumineers will reshape your teeth, making them look straighter and more uniform, as well as whiter, something you don’t get with braces.

How does it work?

The method for a common veneer is to grind down the enamel surface (outer white layer of teeth), to make space for the veneer to be placed.  Anesthesia is commonly needed for this part of the procedure. The veneer is fabricated in a dental laboratory, and on a second appointment, after a few aesthetic checks, it is finally bonded to the front of the tooth.

Lumineers, on the other hand, allow the patient to keep the enamel on the front teeth intact (in some cases it may be slightly ground down).  An impression, or mold, of the teeth is taken, and a bite relationship is recorded, and the shade of white that is right for you will be determined. This is all that’s needed to send the case to the dental laboratory where the Lumineers will be created.

On a second appointment, the Lumineers are bonded to the surface of teeth.  In preparation for any bonding process, the tooth surfaces are etched with acid.  The bite is checked prior to bonding to ensure the Lumineers will not chip or crack once the patient begins to eat and talk.  In most cases you can rest assured that the Lumineers procedure is a completely pain-free. Their ultra-thin characteristic allows you to get a perfect fit without shots or removing any of the original tooth structure.  And even when the procedure is completed, there will be no discomfort or sensitivity.  Your new Lumineers will look natural and feel comfortable from the moment they are bonded in place, and you will have that straight, white, flawless Hollywood smile you wished for!

It is important to brush and floss normally, as well as visit the dentist every 6 months and avoid biting on hard objects.  Lumineers may last up to 20 years in great condition when proper dental care is taken.

Cost:

The dentist responsible for placing Lumineers must be certified.  In the United States, the price range for one Lumineer varies between $1200 to $2000.  In Costa Rica the price is around $400.

If you are interested in lumineers in Costa Rica, fill out the “Find a Dentist” form on this page.  One of our patient advocates will reply to your needs.