In the world of cosmetic dentistry, there is always something new. Fifty years ago, veneers revolutionized the film industry—and then the dental industry—by creating picture-perfect smiles from scratch. Then along came Lumineers, which improved upon existing veneer technology by using thinner, lighter, and more durable alloys than had been previously discovered. But despite the advantages of Lumineers, both veneers and Lumineers are still widely practiced today, providing thousands of patients with smiles that glitter and gleam.

Here’s our breakdown of the cost difference to help you decide which is right for you:

Materials

When it comes to materials, both veneers and Lumineers are very similar. They are both made from a lightweight, highly durable porcelain-ceramic alloy that is shaped and colored to match your teeth perfectly. Digital coloring technology can take the refraction index from your teeth to not only match the color of your existing teeth, it even absorbs and reflects light to look identical to the enamel of a natural tooth. However, because Lumineers are a proprietary, newer, and more advanced technology, the materials are more expensive, contributing to the added costs versus Lumineers.

Installation

Installing veneers and Lumineers also follows a similar procedure. First, the enamel on the original tooth is filed down to create an adhesive surface for the Lumineer/veneer to be applied. Because Lumineers are smaller and lighter than conventional veneers, less enamel is removed, making the procedure itself faster and less expensive. However, this also makes conventional veneers better suited for significant restorative work; Lumineers have a more purely cosmetic use.

Price Per Tooth

Both Lumineers and veneers are priced per tooth. Depending on the size, location, and condition of the tooth in question, the price for each can range from $500 to $1,000 per tooth, with Lumineers costing $200 more on average. Because they are larger and less visible, patients are advised to get veneers on their molars and Lumineers for their front teeth. Costs for the total procedure can also be affected by additional cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and orthodontics.

Lumineers and Veneers In The Hoffman Estates

If you are considering a cosmetic dental procedure in the Hoffman Estates or surrounding suburbs, look no further than Schaumburg Dental Studio. We offer a full range of oral care, from orthodontics and prosthodontics to pediatric dentistry, fillings, and more.