Why is the implant dentist insisting on porcelain veneers?

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diagram of a dental implant Hello,

I was in an accident when I was a teenager and the dentist didn’t recommend getting dental implants at that time. So, I’ve been wearing a dental flipper. I was under the impression that when I was an adult, I could find a more permanent solution to my missing front teeth. So, I have been doing my research and came across a cosmetic dentist that has very reasonably-priced dental implants.

When I scheduled a consultation with the cosmetic dentist, he said that he would go ahead and do the dental implants. However, he also wants me to get two porcelain veneers placed on each side of them. So, that would mean I would have work done on six teeth total. His reasoning was that the porcelain veneers with the dental implants would ensure it would all match and blend in well.

I’m wondering if this sounds legit because I never anticipated needing porcelain veneers down the road. The dental flipper I have is okay and could probably look better. But, I thought that’s why I would be getting dental implants. Do I really need the porcelain veneers at this time? All of this work will stretch me financially far more than I had planned.

Please let me know if you have any advice?

-Paul in Colorado

Paul,

The situation you are describing is not typical. Unless there is something cosmetically wrong with the teeth that would surround the dental implants, there is no reason that you need them. It sounds a little odd that this dentist would make that recommendation and it begs the question, does this dentist know what he is doing. Cosmetic dentistry and implant dentistry for that matter, require extensive training and experience beyond dental school. Not any general dentist will do beautiful work. A reputable dentist should be able to make the dental implants look lifelike and completely natural. The restorative portion of the implant should blend in perfectly with the surrounding teeth.

The other alternative here is that he is giving you such a good deal on the dental implants, he may be trying to up-sell you on the porcelain veneers. Whatever the case, it would be worth your while to get a second opinion.

Ultimately, trust (not cost) needs to be the most important determining factor when selecting the right implant dentist for you. Quality materials, skill, and a dentist that listens to your needs are imperative.

Proceed with caution and check out a couple more implant dentists before making your final decision.

Best of luck!

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

Fixing a scratched porcelain veneer.

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I had porcelain veneers done about six months ago and so far I’ve loved them. However, I just noticed a scratch on one of the porcelain veneers on my front teeth. My cosmetic dentist told me to come in and he would go ahead and buff it to take care of the scratch. That seemed to work. But, now it appears that the gloss is gone in that small area. The area is dull and does not have the same shiny, polished look as it used to.

He used “cups” to do the polishing. Now I’m worried that the unsealed portion of the porcelain veneers will be susceptible to discoloration. Do you think I will end up needing it to be replaced? Or is there some other way to have the gloss redone?

The area still feels smooth. However, I can tell the gloss is more of a matte finish now, if that makes sense.

-Bethany in Missouri

Bethany,

close-up of a woman smiling with white teethUnfortunately, we hear similar stories all the time from dentists that claim to be cosmetic dentists, but actually, don’t have the skills to support it. The thing that you may not realize is that any dentist can make the claim to be a cosmetic dentist. However, to be an excellent cosmetic dentist requires extensive training and an in-depth understanding of the various bonding technologies and materials. Many dentists think they are qualified and even have the best intentions. But, they end up delivering results that aren’t the best. It sounds like your dentist may be falling into this category.

If the glaze has been compromised, your porcelain veneer is at risk for staining and discoloration because the protective barrier has been compromised. There is a technique that will return the glaze to the original state. It doesn’t necessarily require an expert to do it either. But, it will require an understanding of the process and cosmetic dentistry materials. So you need to be a little bit careful in selecting your next dentist to do the repair. A diamond polishing device, along with polishing paste will be required for a seamless look. It will need to be finished off with an ultra-fine diamond polishing paste.

You could find a new dentist since this dentist didn’t succeed. Or you could talk with your current dentist and explain that you want a better shine to match the surrounding porcelain veneers. A particular product that you could recommend is called Brasseler’s Dialite porcelain polishing system. This should help restore the porcelain veneer to the original beauty.

Let us know what you decide and what kind of result you end up with. Best of luck!

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

Why are my gums bleeding after porcelain veneers?

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Several months ago, I had four porcelain veneers placed on my front teeth. I have been determined to keep them looking great after how much money I spent on them. So, I’ve brushed and flossed after almost every meal. I was surprised that my gums are very sensitive and irritated. They bleed easily during brushing. Since I’ve never had porcelain veneers or any cosmetic dentistry, I figured this was normal.

However, at my last cleaning, the hygienist lectured me about the importance of regular oral hygiene, especially with porcelain veneers. She said I wasn’t doing a good enough job and it looks like I’m getting gum disease. I was shocked! Would the new porcelain veneers be making me more prone to gum disease?

-Erica in Florida

Erica

Bleeding gums is not normal and needs to be addressed. Hopefully, the hygienist went over some other ways you could improve your daily hygiene routine. Many patients really like a water pick, which can help reach hard to reach areas. Or it may be possible that you have changed how your regularly brush and floss without realizing it.

Whatever the case, the timing of the new porcelain veneers and the symptoms of gum disease is concerning. Did you see a cosmetic dentist or a general dentist for the placement of the porcelain veneers? The reason I’m asking is that not every dentist does an excellent job on porcelain veneers. It takes extensive training and experience beyond dental school to do cosmetic dentistry successfully. Not many dentists fall into this category. In fact, it’s less than two percent of dentists that are equipped to do porcelain veneers well.

close-up of a porcelain veneer next to a patient's natural toothIf indeed the dentist wasn’t one of these top two percent of cosmetic dentists, it may be an issue with the edges or “margins” of the porcelain veneers. If the veneer doesn’t sit flush with the tooth, it may have a small ledge in the transition. This can lead to bacteria and food particles to become trapped, which can lead to decay and gum disease. These margins that are not seamless are very difficult to keep clean. A similar problem may also be caused by overuse of dental bonding material or cement. Bacteria can cause the increase in irritation right along the gum line, where the veneer meets with the tooth.

So, at the very least, you should try to improve your oral hygiene with improved techniques. It would be good to go back to the dentist and have the margins checked. If they are a problem, the original dentist should fix it at no additional cost. Although, if the margins are bad, it may be better to see another cosmetic dentist. Then, you can be sure they are addressed properly and find out what you need to do to get back on track with your oral hygiene.

Thank you for your question. Hopefully, this will be helpful.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

Is my daughter a porcelain veneers candidate?

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Hello,

I’m trying to figure out if my daughter is a porcelain veneers candidate. She is nine years old and fell on the playground at school. Most of the front tooth is chipped. In fact, there is only about half of the tooth remaining. It is a permanent tooth, so she is mortified. You know how cruel kids can be!

Would a porcelain veneer work for her or possibly a porcelain crown for a front tooth? I’m looking online because our regular dentist doesn’t think either would be a good option. He said that since she’s only nine, she isn’t a candidate for porcelain veneers.

-Carol in Texas

Carol,

First, we are sorry to hear about your daughter’s accident. It is understandable that you are concerned about the aesthetics of her tooth.

Cosmetic Dentistry for a Front Tooth

sad girl with toothacheFor a child with a damaged permanent tooth, the dentist usually checks the nerve of the tooth first and foremost. If there is nerve damage, it will need to be treated as soon as possible. Trauma to a tooth can damage the underlying nerve and cause the tooth to die. This may not happen right away, so please go back in right away if she complains of throbbing pain or if the tooth discolors.

Once the nerve damage is ruled out, then the aesthetics of the tooth can be addressed with a reputable cosmetic dentist. Every dentist has different opinions, but it would be wise to see an excellent cosmetic dentist in your area that has experience working on front teeth. Although, you are interested in a crown or porcelain veneer, it may not be an option. Since your daughter’s tooth is still developing and her jaw and bones are growing. This impacts the stress on chewing and her overall bite patterns.

Dental bonding on a front tooth may work well to address the immediate aesthetic concerns. It may need to be touched up periodically. But, it will look natural and beautiful if it is done by an expert cosmetic dentist. Then, down the road, when your child is done growing, you may be able to consider other cosmetic dentistry options. A porcelain veneer or crown makes more sense in the future.

Thank you for your question and good luck!

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

What mouthwash do you recommend for porcelain veneers?

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I love my new porcelain veneers! Everyone seems to notice something is different. But, they can’t seem to put their finger on it. Anyway, I want to keep them looking great. What type of mouthwash is best for cosmetic dentistry?

-Sheila in California

Sheila,

close-up of a woman smilingThat’s wonderful to hear how happy you are with your beautiful porcelain veneers. Mouthwash isn’t required to keep your porcelain veneers looking great. In fact, it really doesn’t do a whole lot for hygiene either.

However, if you want to keep mouthwash in your daily routine, you need to avoid any brand that contains alcohol. Some popular brands of mouthwash contain over 20% alcohol, which is not good for porcelain veneers. The alcohol in mouthwash can weaken the dental bonding that is used to hold the porcelain veneers in place. Over time, if porcelain veneers are exposed to these types of products, it can cause them to loosen, cause micro-leakage and possibly come off. Other oral hygiene products that contain alcohol can also negatively affect your gums and overall oral health.

There are brands of alcohol-free mouthwash. Just be sure to read the label. A couple brands that do not contain alcohol are Crest Pro-Health and Breath-Rx. There are others too again just be careful and read the ingredient list.

Caring for Porcelain Veneers

  1. Brush your teeth after you eat each meal. A soft, gentle cleaning will do.
  2. Flossing twice daily will help keep your porcelain veneers looking their best.
  3. Avoid abrasive whitening toothpastes or other hygiene products.
  4. Keep up with routine care. Be sure you visit a dental hygienist that is experienced in caring for cosmetic dentistry. Some cleaning equipment is too abrasive to be used on cosmetic dentistry. It can ruin the protective glaze and cause permanent damage.
  5. If you grind or if your dentist suspects grinding, wear a night guard for sleeping.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

 

 

Looking for deals on porcelain veneers.

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I have been checking out deals for porcelain veneers on sites like Groupon to fix my ugly front teeth. The cosmetic dentists that I’ve seen have told me I’m a good candidate. But, I just haven’t been able to justify the expense.

The latest porcelain veneers deal I have seen on Groupon is nearly half price of what a couple different cosmetic dentists wanted to charge. So, I am planning to meet with the cosmetic dentist next week that is offering the deal. Is there a catch or have I finally found a way to achieve my beautiful new smile?

-Becky in Florida

Becky,

Half price porcelain veneers are just not a good idea. Think about it. There is a reason for the discount. And with porcelain veneers, you need to be extremely careful. This isn’t like buying a new television on Black Friday. If porcelain veneers aren’t done by a highly-skilled cosmetic dentist, it may end up costing you more in the long run to have the work redone when you aren’t happy.

beautiful smile makeover with porcelain veneersNot just any dentist can do porcelain veneers well, even if they say they can. It is like an art. And porcelain veneers need to be created from an aesthetic perspective versus pure function. That is where a lot of general dentists trip up. But, in order to do beautiful porcelain veneers, a dentist must undergo extensive cosmetic dentistry training beyond dental school. The materials also make a difference, as well as the laboratory. An excellent cosmetic dentist will listen to your input and create a smile makeover that will blend in perfectly with your personality, facial shape and complexion. That is why porcelain veneers comes at a higher price tag.

So, the main question you need to consider is – what corners is this Groupon dentist cutting? Look into what materials he’s using, what laboratory he uses and then, most importantly, what experience and training he has undergone. The unseen costs may come in when he charges for each appointment, adjustment or any issue you have along the way. Generally speaking, if it sounds too good to be true, it likely is too good to be true. At the very least, you need to look at his portfolio of work to see how cases similar to yours have turned out.

Honestly, it would be a bummer to see you go through a porcelain veneers nightmare in the hunt for a good deal.

Good luck to you and in your decision.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

 

I don’t want crowns! Will porcelain veneers work?

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I have been looking forward to getting porcelain veneers, since my last dentist appointment. Even though my dentist said he found a couple little cavities, he said I could still get them since some of the tooth is removed anyway. He said if the cavities ended up being deeper than he thought, he would fill them a little bit. But, he said I was still a candidate for porcelain veneers.

Shortly after that appointment, we had to move out-of-state for work. Now, I’m seeing a new cosmetic dentist. He is telling me that porcelain veneers are not an option. So, he wants me to get crowns done. This new dentist says the teeth have too much decay. Also, he wants me to get crowns with a metal framework to help with strength. I don’t want crowns and I don’t want metal in my mouth. It doesn’t seem possible that the cavities would have progressed so much that I cannot get porcelain veneers. Do you think I should get another opinion?

-Sheila in Kentucky

Tooth decay is a tricky thing. It can progress very quickly and sometimes it is much worse than the x-rays show. There are no guidelines for how quickly it advances. For example, it may destroy one tooth rapidly and not progress at all on the one next to it.

Therefore, it is a judgement call by the dentist. Some dentists take a less invasive approach and recommend minimal treatment. Others will be more proactive and treat the problem now, so more work isn’t required in the future. It would be a bummer to get porcelain veneers now and have to get them replaced with crowns after a short time.

Although, there are a couple things that don’t add up. Typically, an excellent cosmetic dentist will not recommend porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, especially on the front teeth. This is mainly because it is very challenging to make porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns look beautiful. This type of crown will inevitably end up with a gray line at the gum, when the gums recede over time. Most dentists agree that the use of metal in crowns is much better suited for back teeth.

It’s probably a good idea to get a second opinion from another reputable cosmetic dentist. Unfortunately, based on what you have described, I cannot recommend you get porcelain veneers over crowns.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

 

My porcelain veneer is ugly!

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I am unhappy with the way my porcelain veneer turned out. It looks and feels too long and crooked. I’ve had cosmetic dentistry before. So, I know it’s supposed to blend in with your natural teeth.

Several years ago I had some dental bonding work done to my front tooth because I fell and chipped my tooth. The cosmetic dentist did an excellent job. It blended in well and no one seemed to notice it.

Well, I’ve since relocated and am trying out new dentists. When the bonding came off last month, I tried a new dentist for this repair. I found it strange that he said I needed a crown because the bonding wouldn’t work again. I thought that seemed like overkill. So, I asked about a porcelain veneer instead. The dentist was agreeable and so we moved forward.

I should have known I was in for it when the porcelain veneer took over three weeks to come back from the lab. He tried it on and it seemed okay. But, once it was all said and done, I knew something wasn’t right. My tongue wouldn’t leave it along because there is this gap between the porcelain veneer and my natural tooth. It felt crooked too. Worst of all, when I looked in the mirror at home, I realized it’s longer than all my other teeth. I look ugly.

When I called in to tell them my dissatisfaction, they told me I’d get used to it. I don’t think that’s acceptable. Then, they went on to tell me there was nothing more that could be done. What do I do now? I look like a snaggletooth – no joke! Can I get a second opinion? I shouldn’t have to be stuck with it. Right?

Please help,

Mike in Ohio

Mike,

Wow! There are so many things wrong with your story. First, your gut was absolutely right that a crown was not necessary. Dental bonding can be replaced. From the start, it sounds like this dentist isn’t really a true cosmetic dentist. You should have been presented with the benefits of each possible treatment option. Also, you shouldn’t have to be the one making recommendations about the porcelain veneer.

Telling you that the dental bonding wouldn’t work should have come with a reason why. But, in hindsight, it’s likely he wasn’t comfortable in his dental bonding skills.

Well, it sounds like he shouldn’t have been so willing to do a porcelain veneer on a front tooth either. A cosmetic dentist will always have the patient look at the cosmetic dentistry work in the mirror because they want to see your response. An excellent cosmetic dentist wants to hear you are happy with their work. They want you to love it. This is really too bad. And a response back to you that nothing can be done is unacceptable.

You mention it felt okay before it was cemented in place. So, it’s possible that’s where the dentist went wrong, in the actual bonding to the tooth. The veneer can be re-shaped and if you truly aren’t happy, which it sounds like you are not, you can have the work redone. At this point, it sounds like it’s in your best interest to get a second opinion from a reputable cosmetic dentist. You should not have to settle for a porcelain veneer that doesn’t look or feel right. Honestly, even if this dentist offered to re-do the work, you will still want to get a second opinion.

Good luck! Sorry you are going through this.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

I don’t want porcelain veneers that are perfect.

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I’m intrigued by porcelain veneers. But, my biggest concern is that they will look too perfect. I am in a high profile position and on camera a lot. I don’t want my smile to look so perfect that it’s obviously fake. Currently, my teeth are pretty bad. So, it will be a big change and I’m nervous about what others will think. I want them too look better. But, I guess I’m looking for an average-looking smile. Is this possible with porcelain veneers? Or should I look at some other cosmetic dentistry treatment.

-Cory in Texas

Cory,

Well, it sounds like you are humble. That’s a good thing. Most people want the wow factor. They are after perfect, dazzling white pearly whites. To answer your question, porcelain veneers can be created to match whatever look you would like to achieve. They can be made to look natural and not fake. For example, freshening up your smile to make your teeth look whiter and straighter, may be enough for you. If you are looking for an even more average look, you could choose a darker shade. And small defects can be incorporated. Those unique factors could give your new smile some character.

The key for you is going to be to find an excellent cosmetic dentist in your area. Not just any general or family dentist excels at cosmetic dentistry. So, you need someone that is going to listen to your desires and match your personality and goals. For example, square-shaped teeth tend to look more masculine. This type of look gives a strong on-camera look. If you go with a longer shape, you will portray a more youthful look.

So, when you are interviewing cosmetic dentists, be sure to ask about their suggestions based on your goals. Then, they will likely show you similar examples to the look you’re after. An expert cosmetic dentist will have no shortage of before and after photographs to share with you. Also, it is possible to take your photograph and digitally enhance these different looks on your face. This will give you a much better vision of what it will look like.

Porcelain veneers, when done by the right cosmetic dentist, will be a great choice to accomplish the look you’re after. Best of luck.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

 

Porcelain veneers are way too white!

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I’m trying not to freak out, but my porcelain veneers are too white. They are on the bottom teeth and when I first saw the final restorations come back from the lab, I told my dentist they wouldn’t work. They were too white then and so my dentist sent them back to the lab to correct the color. I told him A-2 looked like it matched my top teeth, so that’s what we were shooting for.

When they came back from the lab the second time around, the dentist placed them before I had a look at them. And I’m so sad because they still look white. They look fake and I was devastated, since I was doing all this all for an upcoming wedding. Now, I look silly. I had wear them for the wedding, which only followed a few days later.

Now, three weeks later, one of the porcelain veneers broke off. The dentist originally told me that I had two years to come back to have them replaced if anything went wrong. But, I’m fearing I made a terrible investment. I don’t think porcelain veneers should be coming off this soon. Should I go to a new dentist to see if I’m overreacting about the color? Also, my gums look funny. I was hoping the veneers would cover them, but they are still showing.

I’m so sick of dealing with this. Any pointers?

-Shelli in North Carolina

Shelli,

First off, I apologize that you are living through a cosmetic dentistry horror story. To be clear, are you saying that the dentist bonded the porcelain veneers in place without you realizing it? If so, the dentist could be in trouble. You always need to give your consent for a cosmetic dentist to move forward with the permanent dental bonding of the veneers. You made it sound like he didn’t show them to you when they came back from the lab the second time.

If not consent was given, it may be considered malpractice. This holds true for any medical or dental procedure. A passive nod or gesture really shouldn’t count as consent. If that was the case, an excellent cosmetic dentist will be absolutely, without a doubt sure that you love them before permanently bonding them. This is a challenging situation you find yourself in.

As for the porcelain veneers breaking, this is likely due to the dental bonding not being done correctly. Not the quality of the porcelain veneers. In general, veneers are quite fragile. They acquire strength from the bonding to the natural tooth. If the bonding is done correctly, they can withstand normal biting force and function just like your normal teeth would for many years to come. So, this creates another potential problem for your dentist.

As for your issue with the color. Lower veneers should not be whiter than your top teeth. That will just look odd. Many times you can get away with the bottom teeth looking a little darker than the top, but not vice versa. So, you have another valid complaint.

It would be in your best interest to make an appointment with an expert cosmetic dentist to get an independent, second opinion. Then, you likely will have the new dentist’s support in supporting your quest to get a refund from the original dentist. Regarding the consent from the onset, you may even be able to report him to the dental board. But, hopefully he does the right thing and doesn’t deny it. It sounds like he may have been in over his head to begin with, which sadly happens all too often.

Try a reputable cosmetic dentist and then look into pursuing a refund with the original dentist.

Unfortunately, the porcelain veneers will need to be redone. So, a refund would help you move forward with a new, experienced cosmetic dentist.

Thank you for your question.

This post is sponsored by Lexington cosmetic dentist Hamburg Expressions.

 

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