I Thought I Was Getting Porcelain Veneers

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I thought I was getting porcelain veneers, but my dentist gave me crowns. My dentist shaved my teeth so much that my top right canine aches and is infected. Now, my dentist says I need a root canal. The dentist called my dental work a veneer placement, but the office billed my insurance for dental crowns. Isn’t this malpractice? Thanks. RL from Richmond, VA

RL,

Photo of the tip of dental forceps holding a single porcelain veneer; from the Baton Rouge office of accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher.

Porcelain veneers are thin and require minimal tooth preparation

From what you’ve shared, there is a strong possibility of malpractice. A dentist might argue that the term “veneer” allows for some interpretation, but if their website explains veneers clearly and you received crowns instead, the dentist is responsible. Without a clear explanation and your consent, the treatment you received was inappropriate and illegal.

Why Do Some Dentists Avoid Placing Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers require greater skill than crowns, and not every dentist is comfortable performing them. Rather than admit this, some dentists resort to:

  • Saying veneers are not appropriate when they are.
  • Using misleading phrases such as “360-degree veneers” to make crowns sound like veneers.
  • This type of misrepresentation is unfortunately common, though in your case, the dentist did not use that excuse.

How Can Aggressive Crown Preparation Affect Teeth?

Crown preparation is significantly more invasive than veneer preparation. In your situation, it appears the crowns harmed your canines—leading to one extraction and one root canal. Such damage would have been unlikely with conservative preparation for veneers.

What Can You Do If Your Dentist Gave You the Wrong Treatment?

If your dentist gave you the wrong treatment, report the issue to the state dental board. Also, consult a lawyer to evaluate your case and determine whether you have grounds for a claim.

 

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

How Can I Find a Dentist to Take My Porcelain Veneers Case?

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I’m looking for a dentist to take my porcelain veneers case. I’ve seen two dentists, and both took X-rays. I prefer to narrow my choices instead of getting X-ray after X-ray, only to discover that a dentist might overprepare my teeth. Any tips on finding a dentist, other than a preferred provider in my insurance plan? How can I find someone to do minimal prep on my teeth and give me beautiful veneers? Thanks. Nate from MI

Nate,

Navigating the selection of a new dental professional requires careful consideration. Fortunately, numerous resources are available online to aid you in this important decision. By thoughtfully exploring these resources, you can gather valuable insights to help you identify a dentist who aligns with your needs and preferences.

How to Find a Dentist for Porcelain Veneers

You can find a dentist for porcelain veneers by researching a dentist’s training, credentials, and experience, and reviewing patients’ feedback.

Exploring Online Resources

A well-established cosmetic dentist typically maintains a professional website. We encourage you to explore these sites to review the dentist’s biography, which often details their training, experience, and commitment to ongoing professional development. Look for affiliations or credentials with reputable organizations such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry or the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, which offer specialized training.

Before-and-after smile makeover from Dr. Steven Brooker of Baton Rouge

A healthy smile makeover from Dr. Brooksher

Furthermore, many dental websites feature a “smile gallery,” showcasing before-and-after photographs of their work, particularly with procedures like porcelain veneers. Examining these galleries can help you assess the dentist’s aesthetic skills and identify cases like yours.

Schedule Consultations

Most cosmetic dental practices offer a no-obligation initial consultation. When scheduling, clearly express your interest in visiting the office, meeting the dentist, and discussing potential treatment options. Many practices provide a brief appointment with the dentist or a team member to understand your smile objectives and provide an overview of their services. This visit lets you gauge your comfort with the practice environment and the dental team.

Review Patient Feedback

Seek online reviews for dentists you are considering. Platforms such as Google My Business, Yelp, and Facebook often host patient testimonials. Additionally, a web search using the dentist’s name followed by the word “reviews” may uncover further sources of valuable feedback.

A dental practice’s website or social media accounts can also provide significant information about its expertise and approach to patient care.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Request a consultation with Dr. Brooksher today. Read why so many patients view Dr. Brooksher as one of the best dentists in Baton Rouge.

Will I Need to Replace a New Porcelain Veneer That I Can’t Floss Well?

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I’ve flossed my teeth twice daily for decades without problem. Last month, I got eight new veneers, and now one veneer catches on another. I am concerned there may be a gap between the veneer and my tooth that can lead to a cavity. My dentist doesn’t think it’s a big deal, but I have an appointment with her in two weeks if the problem persists. I don’t understand how my dentist thinks this might have been resolved without her intervention. Will I need a new veneer? Thanks. Monika from IL

Monika,

What you’ve described sounds like an overhang on your dental veneer. An overhang occurs when the margin of the veneer doesn’t seamlessly meet the tooth, creating a slight gap or overlap.

What Causes an Overhang on a Porcelain Veneer?

Photo of the tip of dental forceps holding a single porcelain veneer; from the Baton Rouge office of accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher.

Porcelain veneer

Overhangs can result from inaccuracies in the dental impression taken before veneer fabrication. An inaccurate impression can prevent the laboratory technician from creating a veneer with a smooth and precise fit at the margin.

The ideal veneer should seamlessly blend with the natural tooth structure at the gumline, replicating the original contour.

What Are the Risks of Dental Overhangs?

  • The risks of dental overhangs include decay, gum irritation, and gum disease.
  • Increased Risk of Decay: While not always immediate, overhangs can create a small space where bacteria and debris can accumulate, potentially leading to decay.
  • Gum Irritation and Disease: More significantly, overhangs can irritate the surrounding gum tissue, potentially causing inflammation, redness, bleeding, and even gum disease.

What Can You Do If Floss Catches on Your Porcelain Veneer?

  • Talk to your dentist. Explain your concerns and request a new porcelain veneer to eliminate the overhang.
  • Get a second opinion: If your dentist is unwilling to replace the veneer, you may need to consult another dentist for a second opinion and potential replacement.
  • Be diligent with oral hygiene: Meticulous oral hygiene, particularly around the affected veneer, will help minimize further complications

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Request a consultation with Dr. Brooksher today. Read why so many patients view Dr. Brooksher as one of the best dentists in Baton Rouge.

Which Types of Porcelain Veneers Look the Best?

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I’ve had porcelain veneers since 2007, and want to replace them to get a brighter and more natural-looking smile. I had three consultations with dentists, and one recommend zirconia or Emax crowns. The other two dentists recommended feldspathic veneers. Do you mind ranking the materials from highest to lowest for what I want to accomplish? Thanks. Nagi

Nagi,

Your question is like asking which materials can create a masterpiece painting without considering the talent of the artist. Rather than being primarily concerned about whether a dentist uses e.max, feldspathic, or zirconia porcelain veneers, consider whether the dentist is a talented artist who creates beautiful smiles.

We recommend checking dentists’ post-graduate cosmetic dentistry training, cosmetic dentistry accreditation, the smile galleries of patients’ cases on their websites, and their porcelain veneers experience.

Check the credentials of the dentists with whom you had consultations. If they are not accredited cosmetic dentists or do not have extensive cosmetic dentistry training, find dentists with the training and experience to personalize a beautiful smile for you. Schedule consultations with at least two advanced cosmetic dentists to discuss your smile goals and options for achieving them.

What Materials Produce Beautiful Porcelain Veneers?

Skilled cosmetic dentist often use feldspathic porcelain or e.max to achieve beautiful results. Zirconia is manufactured in blocks of porcelain that must be ground into porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. Although a dental ceramist can bake stain on zirconia’s surface, the results are less aesthetic than baking tint variations onto porcelain. Also, a block of zirconia cannot product subtle variations in shade and translucence in porcelain veneers to mimic natural teeth, but e.max and feldspathic porcelain can.

Check the credentials and training of the dentist with whom you already had consultations. If they lack accreditation or post-graduate training, look for a dentists who do, and schedule consultations.

Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsor this post.

Before and after porcelain veneers pictures from Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Brooker

Before and after porcelain veneers photos from Dr. Duane Delaune.

Is My Overbite Too Deep for Porcelain Veneers?

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My dentist says my overbite is too deep for porcelain veneers. She is referring me to a dentist since I declined her offer for six dental crowns on my front teeth. I don’t want her to shave all my teeth for crowns. Is it correct that veneers won’t work? Thanks. Kelsey from Miami

 

Kelsey,

You are wise to decline crowns on your front upper teeth. You have other options for correcting overbite.

Can Porcelain Veneers Correct Overbite?

Porcelain veneers can correct a mild overbite. After an exam and X-rays, a skilled cosmetic dentist can explain whether porcelain veneers can work. Overbite severity and the condition of your teeth affect treatment options. If porcelains wouldn’t be approproiate, the dentist would refer you to an orthodontist.

Should You Get Dental Crowns for Overbite?

Although dental crowns may correct some overbite cases, there are disadvantages to this approach:

  • Grinding healthy tooth structure—A significant amount of tooth structure must be ground down to correct an overbite and cover teeth with crowns.
  • Leaving your smile makeover incomplete—At least eight teeth are in your smile zone or show when you smile. Placing six dental crowns as a makeover will create a contrast between the crowns and your natural teeth, which may not look natural.

What About Braces for Overbite?

Traditional braces or clear aligners can correct overbite. Orthodontics ensures all teeth are in the optimal position to protect oral health. If you are concerned about wearing braces, orthodontists offer clear aligners that are comfortable and barely noticeable. Although orthodontics takes longer than cosmetic dentistry, some patients prefer to keep their natural teeth intact without requiring preparation for porcelain veneers or dental crowns.

Get a Second Opinion for Deep Overbite

We recommend scheduling a consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist and an orthodontist to compare your options for correcting your overbite. When choosing treatment for your teeth, keep your long-term oral health as a priority.

 

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Why Can’t I Floss Between My Porcelain Veneers?

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My dentist seems unconcerned that I cannot floss between my porcelain veneers. Is this common? Why can’t I floss? Thanks. Alec from Pittsburgh, PA

Alec,

The inability to floss between porcelain veneers is unusual and unhealthy. You have good reason to be concerned.

What Can Prevent Floss from Gliding Between Porcelain Veneers?

If floss cannot guide between your porcelain veneers, there may be a problem with the bonding. Correct bonding technique usually includes the following steps.

  • Use etching and bonding agents to prime the tooth
  • Place bonding on the back of each porcelain veneer before pressing it onto the tooth
  • Remove excess bonding material around the veneer
  • Harden the bonding only on the center of the composite with an ultra-small light
  • Remove excess composite by flossing
  • Smooth the surfaces of the veneers
  • Use a larger curing tip to ensure solid attachment
  • Smooth teeth with fine polishing strips

What Are the Results of Inability to Floss Between Veneers?

Plaque buildup can lead to gum disease if you cannot floss between porcelain veneers. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, flossing is essential to preventing dental plaque and inflammation. Advanced gum disease is linked to an increased risk of systemic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease.

We recommend asking your dentist to ensure you can floss between your veneers. Consult an advanced cosmetic dentist if your dentist cannot resolve your concerns.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

 

Will Porcelain Veneers Help Fluorosis Stains in My Teen’s Teeth?

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Will porcelain veneers help fluorosis stains on my teen daughter’s teeth? I talked to my daughter’s pediatric dentist about the fluorosis stains on your teeth. Her upper and lower front six teeth are yellow and blotchy. My daughter is 14 and wearing braces, and the pediatric dentist is asking us to wait until her braces are off to begin treatment. I asked the dentist what she could do about the stains, but she seemed unsure. My daughter is so self-conscious about her smile. I don’t want her to feel insecure at school and social events. What are our options after braces? Thank you. Tammi

Tammi,

Depending on the extent of the stains in your teeth, several cosmetic dentistry options are available. However, a cosmetic dentist—not a pediatric dentist—can beautifully restore your daughter’s smile.

What Causes Fluorosis Stains in Teeth?

Fluorosis stains occur when a child has consumed too much fluoride while permanent teeth are still developing. Community water with too much fluoride or taking fluoride supplements can lead to fluorosis stains.

How Are Fluorosis Stains Treated?

Photo of the tip of dental forceps holding a single porcelain veneer; from the Baton Rouge office of accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher.

Porcelain veneer

A skilled cosmetic dentist can conceal fluorosis stains with dental bonding, porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, or a combination of treatments.

  • Mild fluorosis – Chariside dental bonding can cover the affected brown or white spots on teeth. A dentist may use teeth whitening along with the bonding.
  • Moderate fluorosis — If your daughter has extensive fluorosis stains on her teeth, a skilled cosmetic dentist may recommend porcelain veneers.
  • Severe fluorosis – Porcelain veneers are the treatment of choice for severe stains.

Should You Treat Fluorosis Stains with Braces?

Braces put pressure on teeth as they move. And braces can add to tooth discoloration. Wait until your daughter completes orthodontic treatment before beginning cosmetic dentistry. Consult with a cosmetic dentist.

Although there is no minimum age for porcelain veneers, if a child’s teeth, jawbone, and face are not fully developed, you will eventually need to replace the veneers. Meanwhile, a cosmetic dentist may recommend a less expensive alternative like dental bonding to improve your daughter’s teeth until you and she are ready for porcelain veneers.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Will I Need New Porcelain Veneers If Mine Are Turning Dark?

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Will I need new porcelain veneers if mine are turning dark? I got the veneers in 2003. I realize that they are almost 20 years old. I compared pictures from last week with pictures from last year, and the difference is noticeable. Will I need new veneers, or can a dentist polish mine or do something else to make them look better? Thank you. Hanako

 

Hanako,

A skilled cosmetic dentist would need to examine your veneers to determine why they are turning dark, but we will provide some insight.

Do Porcelain Veneers Change Color?

Photo of the tip of dental forceps holding a single porcelain veneer; from the Baton Rouge office of accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher.

Porcelain veneer

Porcelain veneers only change color if they are damaged. Veneers are more stain resistant than natural teeth. However, discoloration in teeth behind the veneers can make them look darker.

  • Damaged porcelain veneers Power polishing equipment at a dental office can damage the glaze on porcelain veneers. As the roughened surface of damaged veneers attracts stains, you will notice that your teeth look darker. Also, acidulated fluoride etches the glaze on porcelain veneers and attracts stains.
  • Darkening natural teeth – If your natural teeth darken behind porcelain veneers, the color change can show through. If the seal between a porcelain veneer and tooth is compromised, bacteria can leak in and promote decay that darkens your natural tooth and shows through the veneer.

Will You Need New Porcelain Veneers If Yours Are Darkening?

If your porcelain veneers are turning dark, a skilled cosmetic dentist may be able to approve their appearance or you may need new ones. Schedule a consultation or an exam with an advanced cosmetic dentist to determine why your veneers are darkening. Treatment options may include:

  • Teeth bleaching to lighten your natural teeth
  • Diamond polishing your porcelain veneers to improve their appearance
  • Replacing the veneers your veneers if they are worn or damaged

 

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Why Are My Porcelain Veneers Turning Black at the Top Then Yellow?

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I got porcelain veneers eight years ago. I was never thrilled with them, but they are beginning to discolor so badly that it’s embarrassing that 5 of my eight veneers are turning black at the top and then yellow beneath the black. I expected to keep the veneers for 15 years because my dentist assured me that I had the highest quality materials. I am so anxious because I realize this may mean I need new veneers. I’m getting married in September 2024, and new veneers are not in my budget. I have relocated twice since I got the veneers and must find a new dentist. Although my current dentist takes good care of them, I hesitate to ask him for new veneers. Why do I have two-toned veneers? Thank you. Khloé

Khloé,

Quality porcelain veneers can last 15 years or longer if you care for them well.

Why Are Your Veneers Turning Black and Yellow?

If your veneers are changing colors, the cause may be damage to the veneers or their composition.

Dental Veneers That Turn Yellow

  • Veneers Composition. Veneers can be porcelain or dental composite. Dental composite is a mixture of plastic resin with quartz or glass. Dental composite discolors from everyday activities, including eating, drinking, or smoking over time. However, undamaged porcelain veneers are stain resistant.
  • Damaged Veneers. Porcelain veneers resist stains unless something damages them. Dental office power polishing equipment can etch away the glaze, causing the veneers to turn yellow.

Dental Veneers that Turn Black Near the Gumline

Photo of the tip of dental forceps holding a single porcelain veneer; from the Baton Rouge office of accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher.

Porcelain veneer

Dental veneers may turn black at the gumline if something is leaking behind the veneers. Weakness, where the veneer and tooth meet, can allow fluid to leak and contaminate the bond. The veneer will gradually darken near the gumline. Bonding dental veneers to teeth requires advanced knowledge of bonding techniques.

What Are Your Options for Discoloring Veneers?

Replacing your porcelain or composite veneers is the only option to protect your teeth and oral health. Regardless of the cause of the discoloration of your veneers, leaving it untreated promotes tooth decay. You may need tooth fillings or root canal treatment for untreated decay.

We recommend consulting an advanced cosmetic dentist for an exam and X-rays to identify the source of leakage behind your veneers and explain how to protect your oral health.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Request a consultation with Dr. Brooksher today.

Why Did My Wisdom Teeth Erupt Brown?

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Both of my lower wisdom teeth erupted brown. I don’t know why it happened, but I’m self-conscious about it. Also, my lower molar teeth are darker than the rest. Could something be wrong with my tooth enamel? My dentist’s first available appointment is March 6, but I can’t stop thinking about what’s happening with my teeth. Can a dentist restore them? Will porcelain veneers work?

Although Dr. Brooksher would need to examine your teeth and take X-rays, we can use your description to describe what may be happening with your teeth. Remember that the explanation is not a diagnosis without an in-person appointment.

Why Are Your Wisdom Teeth Brown?

If your wisdom teeth erupted brown, you may have defective enamel. Decay can turn tooth enamel brown, but if the tooth erupts brown, it’s not from decay. A medical condition may cause discolored tooth enamel if other molar teeth are brown. Sometimes, a medical condition or medication taken while teeth form can affect their color as they erupt.

Defective enamel can make teeth susceptible to decay. A dentist would recommend a dental crown if a tooth is weak from decay or other causes. However, a weak or discolored wisdom tooth doesn’t need a crown because wisdom teeth are often problematic and need extractions anyway. Your dentist will examine and x-ray your teeth and review your medical and prescription histories to determine the cause of discoloration. Afterward, the dentist can recommend treatment to improve the shade of your teeth.

Will Porcelain Veneers Work for Molar Teeth?

Porcelain veneers will not withstand the forces of biting and chewing on molar teeth. A cosmetic dentist can recommend an alternative to porcelain veneers for discoloration. Depending on your teeth’s condition and the cause of discoloration, teeth whitening or dental crowns may be appropriate.

If your dentist doesn’t have post-graduate cosmetic dentistry training, schedule a second opinion with an advanced cosmetic dentist to compare your treatment options.

 

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Before and after dark teeth picture

Photos of Dr. Brooksher’s patient. A tooth’s condition and location determine cosmetic dentistry options.