If you would like to transform you smile and correct several cosmetic flaws at once, veneers may be a good option. Along with traditional veneers, Dr. George Georgaklis also offers minimal-prep LUMINEERS® at his San Diego office. These thinner restorations can achieve similar results to traditional veneers, and they involve less alteration to your teeth. However, they are not suitable for everyone. At your consultation, Dr. Georgaklis will explain more about your options and help you decide if La Jolla LUMINEERS® are right for you.

The Difference between La Jolla LUMINEERS® and Traditional Veneers

Both traditional veneers and minimal-prep LUMINEERS® can thoroughly enhance your smile. They can cover up discoloration, chips, and a host of additional cosmetic concerns. They can also reshape your teeth, and sometimes Dr. Georgaklis can use them to make minor orthodontic adjustments. However, while traditional and minimal-prep veneers can often achieve similar effects, the placement process is very different. To place traditional veneers, he will reshape your teeth, removing a layer of enamel to keep your veneers from looking bulky. He will work very carefully, and he will remove a minimal amount of enamel. Nevertheless, you will typically require local anesthesia during the preparatory process. Dr. Georgaklis will take impressions of your teeth, and our lab will craft your restorations. About two weeks later, Dr. Georgaklis will attach your veneers.

LUMINEERS® are much thinner than traditional veneers. Therefore, the dentist will typically not need to reshape your teeth at all. He will simply take impressions, send them to a dental lab, and attach your restorations when the lab is finished.

Determining Your Candidacy

When choosing which treatment is right for you, you will need to consider your dental health. Because traditional veneers require enamel removal, if you have suffered dental erosion, you may be a better candidate for LUMINEERS®. However, your treatment goals will also partially determine which enhancement is right for you. LUMINEERS® are thinner and more translucent. Therefore, they cannot perform all cosmetic functions. They may not be an ideal choice if you want to cover up very dark stains, for example. Additionally, they may not be the best choice to enhance small teeth, close gaps in your smile, or correct misaligned teeth. Dr. Georgaklis will make the final determination at your consultation.

The Benefits of LUMINEERS® at Our San Diego Practice

If he decides that you are suited to LUMINEERS®, there are a number of reasons to consider this treatment.

  • The minimal-prep placement involves negligible discomfort, and you will not typically require anesthesia.
  • Because LUMINEERS® involve minimal alteration of your teeth, they are reversible. If a LUMINEER® is damaged or comes off in the future, you can still retain full dental function even if you do not have it replaced.
  • LUMINEERS® are incredibly lifelike. They will blend with your smile, mask numerous flaws, and transform your overall appearance.

Learn More about La Jolla LUMINEERS®

To find out if you are a candidate for LUMINEERS® at our San Diego practice, contact our office today. George Georgaklis, DDS is an award winning cosmetic dentist, and he will help you choose the right procedure for your needs and goals.