Cosmetic Dentistry Fixes Are Big Business for Dentists

Blame it on Hollywood for the dramatic increase in cosmetic dentistry.

Thanks to those stars with the dazzling white teeth and photo-op grins, more Americans are choosing to brighten up their smiles with veneers, teeth whitening and oral laser surgery.

In fact, according to the American Dental Association, more than $35 billion a year is spent on cosmetic dentistry. But $10 billion of that is being spent on correcting botched dental makeovers, states the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.

To eliminate that risk, many cosmetic dentists are choosing to place Lumineers.

Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers do not require any removal of sensitive tooth structure, making the need for anesthesia or pain shots unnecessary. They give patients a glamorous smile, but also preserve and protect the natural teeth - something that traditional veneers are unable to do.

"I'm shocked when I see the damage done by some cosmetic dentists," said Dr. Louis Kaufman, a Lumineers dentist based in Chicago. "A Lumineers procedure is so minimally invasive that it can fix virtually any botched smile makeover."

Because Lumineers leave original teeth intact, the process is reversible. In addition, Lumineers provide instant teeth straightening and permanent whitening, which makes them a convenient alternative to braces and other orthodontics. They may also be placed over crowns and bridges to improve aesthetics.

More than 9,000 dentists now use Lumineers, which are made from Cerinate porcelain. Lumineers restorations are ultra-thin, yet strong enough to resist any micro-cracking, which can typically damage restorations.

Lumineers have garnered numerous professional awards as well as a spot in Dental Products Report's "Top 10 Products" list and "5 Pluses" in an ongoing two-year study in Dental Advisor.