I’ve seen and heard great things about Lumineers and I think they will be a great choice for my new smile makeover. My only problem is that I am a teeth grinder – does that exclude me from getting them? If so, I’m thinking about not telling my dentist that I grind my teeth and get them anyway. If I do, how long will they last if I continue to grind? – Marisol
Dear Marisol,
Instead of hiding your problem from your dentist, you need to be upfront with him. If he does a thorough examination, it’s likely he’ll detect the issue with your teeth grinding anyway.
Grinding and clenching will definitely affect Lumineers, but it’s hard to say if or when they’ll fail. Have you thought about getting a night guard? You should also check into some of the appliances you can wear during the day or relaxation techniques that will help you overcome the daytime urge to grind or clench.
There are brands other than Lumineers that your dentist may recommend because they will be more durable. Regardless of what you decide, keep in mind that restorations will not last forever. With that said, well-placed veneers can last for many years if you take good care of them. Make it a point to be open and honest with your dentist about your grinding habit and how it might affect your overall goals. When it’s all said and done, you’ll be glad you did.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Alana Macalik. For more information on the services she provides, visit her Arlington cosmetic dentist website.