I’m recovering from bulimia, and I have had three consultations with cosmetic dentists who have good reputations. One of them suggests a complete smile makeover with porcelain crowns. He said the crowns would restore my decayed teeth, correct my bite, and make my smile beautiful. 10 of my teeth are severely decayed, 2 have some decay, and the others are healthy enough not to require major work. I’m concerned about the dentist grinding down all my teeth when only 10 are severely decayed. Unfortunately, my consultation with the dentist who wants to do all crowns was the last of the three. I was surprised by his recommendation, and I couldn’t ask the other two dentists about it because I had already seen them. Each dentist agrees to give me sedation for anxiety and do wax-ups of my new smile. But now I’m concerned and getting more anxious. Did the first two dentists miss something about the condition of my teeth and which treatment is best? Or is the third dentist too aggressive? Thanks. Micah from TX

Micah,

Congratulations on your recovery from bulimia. Although Dr. Brooksher would need to examine your teeth, dental history, and x-rays to evaluate your case accurately, your explanation of the third dentist’s recommendation raises concern.

Advanced, ethical cosmetic dentists treat teeth conservatively, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. And they don’t try to convince patients to receive treatment that makes them uncomfortable or recommend an aggressive treatment plan without the patient’s request.

Does It Take All Crowns to Get a Smile Makeover?

If you get the sense that a dentist is a salesperson, opt for a conservative cosmetic dentist who will transform your smile in a way that preserves your healthy tooth structure whenever possible. As you recover from bulimia, a conservative approach will increase your confidence in your smile. A full-mouth reconstruction that shaves all your teeth for crowns is required in these instances:

• Severe issues with your bite that cause pain
• Facial collapse
• Many decayed or broken teeth

It’s wise to return to either of the first two cosmetic dentists you saw and discuss your concerns about porcelain crowns for all your teeth vs. the dentist’s recommendation. The cosmetic dentist will further explain why he or she recommended specific treatment and not all crowns for your teeth. Often, a smile makeover includes a combination of treatments, such as cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and sometimes crowns.

If it increases your comfort to return to both cosmetic dentists, don’t hesitate to do so. Best wishes on your journey and your new smile as you recover from bulimia.

This post is sponsored by Steven Brooksher, DDS, a Baton Rouge dentist and accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.