Lumineers over Existing Veneers?

Question

28 years ago when veneers were first being offered in Southern California my Dentist was one of the pioneers. I opted for my 6 uppers to be done. Today at 53 my gums have receded and the veneers look awful. What would be the optimal process for lumineers? How would you remove the existing veneers? Could lumineers still be bonded after removal since 30 years ago the tooth prep was quite different.

Ace Jovanovski, DMD · Answer

Congratulations! 28 years for a set of veneers is EXCELLENT! Bonding has significantly improved over 3 decades of dentistry.  Bonding OVER your existing veneers is not very predictable, as you would have 2 different bonded layers... Not a great go-to solution. Removal of existing veneers, with a new set fabricated, is the most predictable solution. Ask your dentist for REAL patient examples, and what laboratory he uses!As with all information, ask a dental professional prior to proceeding with any treatment.

Norman Huefner, DDS · Answer

No, placing porcelain veneers over existing veneers is not a viable option.  Just have the old veneers removed and new veneers placed.  If you want thin veneers there are several options, Lumineers is only just one of them.  Many different labs offer minimal thickness veneers.
	The veneers are removed and the teeth prepared quite easily.  Local anesthetic is given, the veneers are easily drilled off, the dentist can easily see where the old veneers ended and the underlying tooth under it begins.  The dentist will extend the tooth preparation to cover the areas of your roots that are now exposed because of the recession you experienced over the years.

	By the way, I would discuss EMax veneers with your dentist, as they can be made almost as thin as Lumineers, but made of an advanced porcelain material that is much stronger, and thus most cosmetic dentists expect them to last many times longer. 

	Funny that you said 28 years ago, as 1985 was the year that porcelain veneers were first introduced to dentistry.  Is there any possibility that you did not get porcelain veneers, but rather direct composite (plastic) veneers?

Donald L. Wilcox, DDS · Answer

Do not place veneers over existing veneers.  Have the old ones removed and new ones placed.  A good cosmetic dentist has done this many times and can give you a great result.

Lumineers over Existing Veneers?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lumineers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Lumineers over Existing Veneers?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lumineers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.