In the beginning, all veneers were of the no-prep or very minimal-prep variety. For several years I wrestled with the thickness. As the dental profession gained experience with bonded porcelain and dental bonding materials became available, I began to overcome some of the self-imposed difficulties brought on by preparation limitations and began prepping more aggressively.

Recently, a powerful and well-funded marketing campaign by Lumineers, which is directed at the public, promotes no-prep veneers as something new. It simply isn't new.  So, it is back to the 80's we go. True, materials have changed (from feldspathic to pressed), making for slightly better lab results than were possible then, but the difficulties imposed by no- prep or minimal-prep cases remain basically the same as they did 80's.

We do offer Lumineers and have done a number of them. However, the new material does not solve all the problems imposed by no-prep or minimal-prep veneers.

• Patients like the idea of not prepping and therefore these cases are easier to sell
• Temporaries are often unnecessary
• Restorations bond strongly to enamel, so these stay put
• Procedures are reversible if the results are not satisfactory
• There is minimal damage to the dental pulp

Disadvantages:

• Esthetic changes are limited
• Limited potential for color change
• Difficulties manufacturing, inserting and bonding the restorations
• Patient complaints about excessive bulk
• Flat esthetics due lack of room to create anatomy

Our experience has shown that careful planning with consideration for ALL the options plays THE crucial role in predictable cosmetic results. That is why we analyze each case individually and determine what is the best solution.  Mark Twain said, "If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail."  Our office has lots of tools, to bring you the very best solution for your needs!

If you have any comments or questions to add to this discussion, please add them.