Many of my patients ask me if I offer Lumineers. My answer is Lumineers are a brand of minimally invasive veneers which have been heavily marketed, are made by a certain out of town laboratory, and are a fine product, however, I use a different brand of veneer. I do provide my patients with minimally invasive porcelain veneers which, like Lumineers, can correct mis-aligned teeth, cover stains, change the shape of mis-shapen teeth, and in many cases no anesthetic and minimal or no drilling is required. I prefer to use dental laboratories that I have worked with over the years, labs that do excellent work, and are local Michigan businesses. A diagnosis of your specific needs is required to determine if minimally invasive veneers are a good choice for you.
Advantages of Porcelain veneers are numerous. They are a very effective way to improve the color, shape, and size of your teeth. They can also be used as part of a full facial makeover and can take years off of your face. Dr. Apsey recommends that his patients start with their teeth prior to visiting the cosmetic surgeon. Minor plumping of the lips, a reduction of the sunken appearance of the face which occurs with wearing of the teeth and closing of the bite with age, can be corrected with treatments aimed at opening the bite. Porcelain veneers are an important part of these treatment plans.
Some myths about minimally invasive veneers:
• Minimally invasive porcelain veneers cause the teeth to be too thick, and too long. In order to prevent the teeth being too thick or too long, some minimal reduction of tooth structure is often done so that the end result will be a veneer that is right for you. This is a planning issue done prior to beginning treatment.
• Minimally invasive porcelain veneers cause gum disease. When Dr. Apsey cements veneers into place, he is certain to polish the edges of the veneers, removing any excess cement to assure a healthy end result. As always, the patient must brush and floss twice daily around the veneered teeth and visit the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups to prevent problems.
• My teeth will be sensitive after the veneers are placed. In this procedure, since the enamel is preserved, sensitivity is rarely a problem.
About the Author: Dr. Gregory Apsey practices dentistry in Warren, Michigan. He is a General Dentist with a focus on excellence in family dental care, braces, root canal treatment, mercury-free dentistry, veneers, crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant restoration. He has been practicing in the area for 23 years, is a graduate of The University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Faculte for Orthodontic research and Education, and the Academy of General Dentistry. You will feel at home in his friendly, welcoming office.