I have been back to my cosmetic dentist two times since I had six porcelain veneers placed on my front teeth. The original appointment was three weeks ago now. When I left the office I was very unhappy with how they turned out. So I went back in and he sent them back to the lab and I was supposed to tell the laboratory technician what I didn’t like. I had originally picked a bright, white shade but when they were applied they looked yellow to me. The laboratory tech explained that my dentist should add some color and polish out some of the yellowish color. My dentist refused because he didn’t want to ruin the porcelain. Do you know if they can be whitened in a way that removes the yellow stain? I basically feel like my teeth look coffee-stained. Can they be bleached?
– Amber from New York
Amber,
Sorry to tell you that teeth whitening or whitening toothpaste will do nothing to lighten porcelain veneers. It also sounds as if your cosmetic dentist may not be very experienced in cosmetic dentistry techniques. This is because it sounds as if the veneers were originally made with a stain. An experienced, expert-level cosmetic dentist would be comfortable and confident in grinding out the color if you were unhappy. Then, when the desired color is reached the veneers should be re-polished. At this point, it sounds like it’s time to seek a second opinion. If your dentist was taking pointers from the lab tech, you do not want him to try and fix your case.
It is quite possible that your dentist is a trustworthy person and did the best job he was capable. But what many people don’t realize is that cosmetic dentistry is truly an art form. A dentist must be passionate about creating beauty. It takes many years of advanced education and training to do this kind of aesthetically-focused work well.
From what you have described, you should be able to make the request to have these done correctly. Besides you have paid a lot money to have a beautiful smile makeover done. At this point, it may be reasonable to request a refund and have the work redone by an experienced cosmetic dentist. Many excellent cosmetic dentists will give you multiple opportunities to see exactly what the veneers will look like before they are permanently bonded into place. This is usually called a beautiful smile guarantee, or something along those lines.
If he will not refund the work, you can have him try again for a third time. Just be a bit weary and make sure you view them in all lighting and maybe even bring someone to accompany you so that they can be an independent third party. Then when you are assured that the veneers are correct in color, be sure he uses a clear bonding resin to complete the treatment.
Most cosmetic dentists will go to any length necessary to make sure you absolutely love your new smile. Sorry you had to go through this. It sounds like your dentist may have been in over his experience level.
This post is sponsored by York PA Dentist Donald H. Currie, DMD General & Cosmetic Dentistry