Lumineers & Veneers in Chicago, IL

Wafer-thin, custom-made shells that change the color, shape, size or length of your teeth.

Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length.

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Veneers may be right for you if

You have discoloration that cannot be fixed with whitening
Your teeth are damaged
You’re unhappy with the shape or look of your natural teeth

Why Veneers

We recommend this treatment to anyone experiencing discoloration that cannot be fixed with whitening or if your teeth are damaged. Porcelain veneers are also an option if you’re unhappy with the shape or look of your natural teeth.

Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in dentistry, and for good reason: they instantly improve your smile with a treatment that’s as effective as it is easy and minimally invasive.

Benefits of Veneers and Lumineers®

Veneers can address several concerns at once. A single set can cover deep stains and chips, even out worn edges, close small gaps and balance tooth size, with the shade and shape planned to look natural.

Porcelain resists staining well, so veneers often keep their color better than natural enamel.

Lumineers® are a type of veneer made to be especially thin. In many cases they need little or no reshaping of the natural tooth, which makes them a more conservative option for some patients.

What to Expect

Veneers usually take a few visits. At the first, Dr. Sowell will examine your teeth, talk about the look you want and make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment. A thin layer of enamel may then be reshaped, though with Lumineers® this step is often minimal or skipped. Impressions are then taken and sent to a dental lab, and temporary veneers may be placed while you wait.

When your veneers are ready, your dentist checks the fit and color, makes any adjustments, and bonds each one to the front of the tooth. A local anesthetic can be used if reshaping is needed. Your teeth may feel slightly different or a little sensitive for a few days while you adjust.

Caring for veneers is much like caring for natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily and keep up with regular cleanings. Avoid biting ice or pens, and ask about a night guard if you grind.

Common Questions

How long do veneers last?

It varies, but many porcelain veneers last 10 to 15 years or more with good care. Grinding and biting hard objects can shorten their life.

What’s the difference between Lumineers and traditional veneers?

Lumineers® are a brand of very thin veneer that often needs little or no removal of tooth enamel. Traditional porcelain veneers are usually a bit thicker and may require some reshaping of the tooth.

Are veneers reversible?

When enamel is reshaped for traditional veneers, the change is generally considered permanent, so the tooth will need a covering from then on. Lumineers® may involve less change to the tooth, and your dentist will explain your treatment before you decide.

Can I whiten my veneers?

Porcelain doesn’t respond to whitening the way natural teeth do. If you’d like a brighter smile overall, your dentist may suggest whitening your natural teeth first so the veneers can be matched to that shade.

Does insurance cover veneers?

Coverage depends on your plan, and veneers placed for cosmetic reasons are often treated differently from restorative care. Our team can help you check your benefits, and you can learn more on our payment options and in-office plan pages.

Terms You May Hear

Porcelain: A strong, tooth-colored ceramic used for veneers and crowns. It reflects light much like natural enamel and resists staining.
Tooth preparation: Gently reshaping a thin layer of enamel so a veneer fits flush with neighboring teeth. Minimal-prep veneers need little or none.
Temporary veneer: A short-term covering that may be placed while your permanent veneers are made. It protects the tooth and previews the new shape.

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