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Dr. Thomas

What’s Causing Gum Inflammation After Getting Porcelain Veneers?

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I had veneers placed on my two front teeth in late April. Since then, those teeth and the adjacent ones have been inflamed and slightly painful. It’s frustrating because I’ve always been diligent about oral hygiene. My dental assistant suggested I wasn’t brushing enough, but that’s absurd.

After a month of discomfort, my dentist removed some cement and smoothed rough edges, which provided minimal relief. The inflammation persists.

I’m concerned about my dentist’s lack of urgency and the potential for this issue to worsen. I wonder if improper cleaning after removing the temporary veneers might be a factor. My dentist said that etching alone was sufficient, but I’m unsure if my entire teeth were properly etched. Additionally, due to scheduling, I had to wear the temporaries for five weeks for the permanent veneers, which might have contributed to the problem.

A periodontist examined my gums and found no obvious issues but suggested a follow-up in a few months. How can I protect my teeth and address this ongoing inflammation? – Thanks. Emilia

Emilia,

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry evaluates the health of gum tissue around cosmetic dentistry as a vital factor for certifying a dentist’s work. Healthy gums are essential for successful cosmetic dentistry. When gum tissue is unhealthy, conscientious dentists work to identify the cause—with or without cosmetic dentistry.

What Causes Gum Inflammation After Getting Porcelain Veneers?

Excess cement around the veneers, irregularities where a veneer and tooth meet, or prolonged wear of temporary veneers can cause gum inflammation after porcelain veneers. However, circumstances vary with each patient. An exam from an expert cosmetic dentist will identify the source of inflammation.

Cement Retention

One common culprit is residual cement trapped beneath the gumline. Cosmetic dentists who frequently place veneers typically have refined techniques for removing excess cement while it’s still soft. Your dentist’s decision to remove cement a month after the procedure suggests potential issues with initial cement removal.

Veneer Margin Issues

Irregularities where the veneer meets the tooth, known as overhangs, can irritate the gums. While your periodontist didn’t identify a severe problem, she may have conducted a limited assessment. Seeking a second opinion from an independent cosmetic dentist could provide clarity.

Other Factors

Prolonged wear of temporary veneers can sometimes cause gum inflammation, but this is less likely to be the cause of your concerns. Additionally, veneers placed too deep under the gumline may contribute to inflammation. A rare possibility is a reaction to the veneer material. While it’s unlikely that inadequate tooth cleaning before veneer placement caused gum inflammation, proper bonding requires clean teeth.

Most patients who get cosmetic dental procedures become meticulous about oral hygiene. While exceptions exist, most patients diligently care for their new smiles.

Get a Second Opinion

Get a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist specializing in veneers. Ask for an evaluation without giving details about the experience with your dentist.

Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas of Cornerstone Dentistry sponsors this post. Read about Dr. Thomas’s commitment to giving his patients the best dental care possible.

Should I Let My Dentist Replace a Veneer with a Crown?

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Hi, I have a cavity in a tooth with a veneer on it. My dentist wants to remove the veneer and replace it with a crown. That sounds a bit odd to me. Do you have any advice? – Thanks. Jael from Pittsburgh

Jael,

We recommend getting a second opinion before replacing a porcelain veneer with a crown.

Do You Need a Crown for Porcelain Veneer Tooth with a Cavity?

Whether you need a crown for a porcelain veneer tooth with a cavity depends on several factors, including the cavity size. While veneers are minimally invasive, crowns require significant tooth reduction. A cavity would need to be quite large to necessitate a crown. Given the conservative nature of veneers, it’s more likely that your dentist is unfamiliar with veneer procedures and prefers the more familiar crown treatment. Additionally, cavities often occur at the veneer’s edge, requiring specialized skills and equipment to repair without compromising the veneer’s integrity.

Matching a Crown to Porcelain Veneer Teeth

The chances of successfully matching a crown to your existing veneers are low. Very few dentists possess the skill to achieve this delicate match. I’ve received numerous messages from patients disappointed with the results of crown-veneer matching attempts.

Finding the Right Dentist

It’s essential to differentiate between general dentists and cosmetic dentists. While many general dentists offer cosmetic services, achieving exceptional results demands specialized expertise and artistic ability. I recommend seeking a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist with a proven track record.

Preventing Future Cavities

Reduce snacking frequency and floss daily to minimize the risk of future cavities around your veneers. These habits will help protect the vulnerable areas where the veneer meets the tooth.

While it’s possible that your dentist has a valid reason for recommending a crown, we advise obtaining a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist.

Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas of Cornerstone Dentistry sponsors this post. Read about Dr. Thomas’s commitment to giving his patients the best dental care possible.

 

Why Have Six of My Eight Veneers Popped Off?

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I got veneers in January to conceal chips and small gaps between my teeth. I knew my teeth would be prepared, but I was surprised that my dentist ground my eight front teeth so much that they didn’t look like teeth anymore. I was almost in tears. I tried to convince myself that it would be okay because the veneers would cover my teeth anyway.

Imagine my horror when my first veneer fell off two weeks after getting them. The horrible-looking tooth behind it showed, so I avoided people and talked minimally. I’m glad I work from home, so most people didn’t see the tooth. My dentist bonded the porcelain veneer back on, but another veneer fell off within two weeks. My dentist doesn’t know why I’ve had problems with the veneers. She asked me if I wear my nightguard (I do) because my teeth grinding at night could be loosening the veneers. I’ve noticed that each of the six veneers that fell off has a ledge on the back. I don’t know if that has anything to do with it.

I have an appointment with my dentist in two weeks for her to try something else, I’m unsure of her plan, but I am concerned about this. I have travel plans this summer and am concerned about when or where a veneer will pop off and whether or not I’ll be able to retrieve it.

I don’t want to return to my dentist but am unsure how to explain to her that I just want my money back. – Thank you. Leigh

 

Leigh,

We understand your frustration, disappointment, and concerns. Your experience is not normal.

The aggressive preparation of your teeth was for dental crowns, not porcelain veneers. Veneers only require a dentist to remove .5 millimeter or less of tooth enamel from the fronts of your teeth. If your dentist ground on your teeth until they were unrecognizable, she prepared your teeth for crowns, and you have dental crowns, not porcelain veneers. Hopefully, your dentist did not tell lead you to believe that you were getting porcelain veneers.

One porcelain veneer - available from Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas

Porcelain veneers require minimal tooth preparation.

You have limited options because your dentist ground your teeth down to nubs. Even dental crowns will not stay on teeth that a dentist aggressively prepares. Although many dentists lack advanced training in porcelain veneers, dental schools teach crown preparation and how to ensure the crown stays on. Your dentist violated the standard of care and is liable for giving you crowns that do not function. Loose crowns allow bacteria in, leading to tooth decay.

Although your dentist can’t restore your tooth, she is liable for compensating you to have the work redone. We recommend looking for a dentist with post-graduate cosmetic dentistry training. Schedule a consultation with the cosmetic dentist. He or she may be willing to contact your current dentist to help you get a refund.

If your dentist hesitates to refund you, report the issue to the state dental board, which you can find from an online search. You can also seek advice from a medical malpractice attorney.

Above all, we hope you find a smooth resolution to restoring your smile.

Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Thomas provides patients with some of the best dental care in Sugar Land.

 

None of My New Porcelain Veneers nor My Bridge Fits

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My dentist replaced my eight veneers and a dental bridge last October to replace worn cosmetic work and open my bite. I had not complained of bite issues, but what do I know about it? I was so uncomfortable wearing the temporary teeth that my dentist replaced them twice. I lost seven pounds because eating was so painful. The dental bridge fell out twice. I should not have given my dentist approval to make the permanent teeth, but I was exhausted and hoping that someone would get it right between my dentist and the lab.

I have my final veneers and bridge now, but I am experiencing dry mouth, veneers sticking to my teeth, and air bubbles between them. My anxiety is so high that I am rubbing my tongue along the gums of my back teeth and making them sore. My dentist’s attempts to adjust my bite have failed. I just wanted to refresh my veneers and dental bridge for a better smile, but this ruined my life. My mouth is either in pain or feels weird daily. I no longer look forward to any meal. Will I need to repeat this process with another dentist, or can I save my veneers and bridge? Thanks. Dionna

Dionna,

Unfortunately, you need new dental work to restore your teeth and bite. Regardless of what your dentist says, please don’t allow him or her to try to adjust or repeat the work.

How Can a Dentist Open Your Bite?

To open your bite, a dentist must complete crown work on at least every tooth in one arch. Often, opening your work requires restoring every tooth. However, a dentist must harmonize your bite with temporary crowns, or the final ones will not work. We don’t understand why your dentist moved forward with the final restorations, even if you agreed.

When you experience bite collapse from worn down teeth, a dentist opens the bite to restore your vertical dimension to its previous state. It seems your dentist opened your bite, although you had no concerns. Perhaps your dentist wanted more of your upper teeth to show when you smile.

The signs and symptoms you are experiencing with dry mouth and your lips reflect bite disruption. Your oral health and discomfort require repeating your case.  Although we don’t have details of your case, it sounds like you deserve a refund. You may qualify for a dental malpractice case.

Consult a Cosmetic Dentist

One porcelain veneer - available from Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas

Porcelain veneer

We recommend finding two dentists with advanced cosmetic dentistry training and occlusion and bite training. Research their credentials and patient reviews before scheduling a consultation. Ask the dentist you choose for your full-mouth reconstruction with porcelain veneers and crowns to contact your current dentist, explain the findings, and request a refund. You can complain to the dental board or consult a lawyer about whether you have a legal case.

Most importantly, consult an expert cosmetic dentist to restore your teeth and quality of life.

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post. Watch a patient testimonial from one of Dr. Thomas’s dental implant patients.

 

An Ultrasonic Scaler Ruined My Veneers

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I have eight upper porcelain veneers. My last two dental cleanings were with a magnetostrictive ultrasonic cleaner. Each time a porcelain veneer fractured within days of the cleaning. I wonder why my hygienist would use this ultrasonic cleaner if it’s known to fracture veneers.

An ultrasonic scaler can be piezoelectric or magnetostrictive. We will explain the difference.

Magnetostrictive vs. Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Scalers

One porcelain veneer - available from Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas

Porcelain veneer

A Journal of Clinical Periodontology published the results of a study comparing piezoelectric and magnetostrictive scalers. Researchers found that the magnetostrictive scaler was slower but left the root surface smoother.

Dentsply manufactured the first magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler Cavitron, which has been around for decades. Although it can be gentler than the piezoelectric scaler, it is more technique-sensitive and requires skill to minimize the risk of damaging natural teeth, chipping the margin of porcelain veneers, or damaging other dental work.

However, a porcelain veneer may crack or fracture if a uses an ultrasonic caller tip on the porcelain surface. Also, an improperly used ultrasonic scaler can cause nicks or rough areas in teeth roots, causing plaque and calculus accumulation over the years which can dad to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated. Read an article on a website for dental hygienists that compares magnetostrictive and piezoelectric scalers.

We recommend finding a skilled cosmetic dentist with hygienists trained and skilled in using ultrasonic scalers on patients with porcelain veneers. You can prevent experiencing damage to your veneers or teeth.

 

Sugarland, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.

Why Does My Dental Bonding Only Last Two Years?

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I am tired of dental bonding on my front teeth staining every two years. The bonding is on my center teeth and the ones on either side of them, which are all chipped. I’ve had the same dentist since 2012; she does the bonding for me. But it stains within two years – without fail. My dentist knows almost when the bonding is about to stain. She says that I cannot whiten the bonding at home. I read online that quality bonding should last a few years. I do not smoke or drink alcohol, tea, coffee, or dark juices. So why is this happening? I am beginning to wonder if my dentist uses some inferior product. Can I do anything at home to prevent my bonding from staining every two years? Could there be something wrong with my teeth that might require porcelain veneers instead? – Thank you. Sunni

Sunni

Although dental bonding stains with time, you should not have to replace it every two years.

Why Does Your Dental Bonding Only Last Two Years?

If your dental bonding stains every two years to the extent of requiring replacement, your dentist may be using inferior products. Or your dentist may not understand proper bonding techniques. It takes an artistic cosmetic dentist to place high-quality bonding and do it well. It can last five years or longer if you maintain it well.

Can You Whiten Your Dental Bonding at Home?

Although bleaching products will not whiten dental bonding, you can try a gentle non-abrasive toothpaste for cosmetic dentistry. Supersmile is a brand that minimizes surface stains on dental bonding and helps keep it bright. If you use bleaching products, they will whiten your natural teeth and make your bonding look worse.

 

A cosmetic dentist might polish your current bonding to improve the stains, or they may need to replace it. Advanced cosmetic dentists use high-quality dental composite and precise techniques to help the bonding last. It’s unlikely you would need porcelain veneers for minor chips in your teeth.

Schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.

 

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post. Read how he strives to give patients some of the best dental care in Sugar Land.

Will Cosmetic Contouring Fix My Jagged Teeth Edges?

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I’m concerned about jagged teeth edges will look when finished with Invisalign. Although it isn’t noticeable with the Invisalign trays on, the edges of my teeth are zigzagged when I remove them. It is so apparent that it detracts from my smile. I asked my husband and best friend, and they agreed that the uneven edges look weird. Funny that it didn’t bother me before. My orthodontist says she can fix them, but this seems like cosmetic work. How do I know if I can trust her?  Would veneers work best? Thank you. Luz from Kansas

 

Luz,

Whether or not your orthodontist can smooth your jagged tooth edges depends on the extent of the issue and your dentist’s skill. You can ask her to show you pictures of her patients with the same issue before and after.

What is Cosmetic Contouring?

Cosmetic contouring (or enameloplasty) is the process of reshaping your teeth. A cosmetic dentist or orthodontist will limit the reshaping of your tooth enamel. The dentist or specialist will polish your teeth after the procedure.

Cosmetic Dentist vs. Orthodontist for Cosmetic Contouring

The dentist you choose for cosmetic contouring should depend on the extent of your uneven tooth edges.

  • Minor adjustments – Many orthodontists regularly complete contouring for their patients.
  • Extensive adjustment – An advanced cosmetic dentist—not your family dentist—is trained in cosmetic procedures and can skillfully adjust your tooth edges. Look for a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training or accreditation.

Although cosmetic contouring may seem simple, it is challenging. For example, if your front teeth are of different lengths, your bite can change and cause your teeth to move. However, experienced cosmetic dentists understand how to even tooth edges without compromising your bite.

Dental Bonding with Cosmetic Contouring

If reshaping your teeth leaves unevenness that can affect your bite, a skilled cosmetic dentist may use dental composite to add length or finish the sides of your teeth without needing porcelain veneers.

 

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.

Porcelain Veneers Have Ruined My Teeth – Can I Reverse Them?

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Porcelain veneers ruined my teeth. I hate that I got them. They are too thick, too white, too wide, and too long. I hate everything about them. Sometimes, I have nightmares about what went wrong and why I listened to my dentist, who convinced me they looked fine. He bonded them to my teeth before I could look at them long enough. I felt rushed. I spent $13,500 on the veneers and am now stuck with him. Is the only thing I can do is wait to see if they last 8 to 15 years before they wear out.? I have stopped smiling because the veneers look like fake teeth from the dollar store. It’s been three months since I’ve had them. Is it too late to reverse them and return to my natural teeth? – Jonah from GA

Jonah,

Your comments show us how much your failed smile makeover affects you. We are sorry to hear about your experience.

If Porcelain Veneers Have Ruined Your Teeth, Can You Reverse Them?

One porcelain veneer - available from Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas

Porcelain veneer

If porcelain veneers have ruined your teeth or you do not like them, generally, you cannot reverse them and return them to your natural teeth. However, if you have no-prep veneers, a cosmetic dentist can examine your teeth and explain your options if you remove the veneers. Another option is to get new veneers, which will be costly. You can try talking to the dentist who placed your veneers about your disappointment and ask for at least a partial refund to replace them. After a dentist bonds your porcelain veneers to your teeth, it may be challenging to get a full refund.

How Can You Find a New Cosmetic Dentist?

You can find a new cosmetic dentist by consulting dentists with extensive post-graduate training in cosmetic dentistry. During your consultation, ask to see patients’ before-and-after porcelain veneers photos. Check online reviews about the dentist’s work. You can also check reviews for complaints. Schedule at least two consultations with dentists at different practices to discuss your options.

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post. Read how he strives to give patients some of the best dental care in Sugar Land.

Can Porcelain Veneers Cause Loss of Taste?

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Ever since I got porcelain veneers, my taste has been impaired. Sometimes, it goes away completely. I am not sure what the process of getting veneers did because only the tongue depressor instrument was sometimes used on me. I don’t understand it. What is there about the veneers process that impairs taste? Thanks. Dina

Dina – Different factors can cause taste disorders. Porcelain veneers placement is unrelated to loss of taste or impaired taste. Although your loss of taste began after you received porcelain veneers, another issue likely caused it.

One porcelain veneer - available from Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas

Porcelain veneers do not alter or impair taste

Causes of taste disorders include the following:

  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Ear, nose, or throat surgery
  • Radiation therapy of the head or neck
  • Head injury
  • Exposure to certain chemicals or medications
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Certain medical conditions – including sinus and allergy issues, hormonal disturbances, dental problems, and more.
  • Genetics
  • Tobacco smoking
  • Age  (60+)

Why Address a Taste Disorder?

Loss of taste or impaired taste can ultimately affect your health. It can cause you to eat too little or too much. It can cause you to add too much sugar or salt to your food, which can lead to complications with diabetes or high blood pressure. Loss of taste can even cause depression.

Consult an otolaryngologist (ENT) to determine your taste disorder’s cause and treatment methods.

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post. Read how he strives to give patients some of the best dental care in Sugar Land.

Will My Swollen Gums Affect My Porcelain Veneer?

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My gums are super sensitive between my top right canine and first premolar teeth. Eating on that side of my mouth causes intense pain causes pain, so I try to remember to only chew on the opposite side. If something triggers pain, it lasts 30 minutes to an hour. It feels a little better after brushing my teeth. The canine tooth is a porcelain veneer tooth. My dentist took an X-ray three weeks ago and cannot find anything. She said the premolar, a root canal tooth, may be triggering the pain, but she can’t see a problem. I explained that it was not the tooth but the gums that hurt. My dentist says she can repeat the root canal or remove the tooth. Those options seem extreme when my dentist is unsure of the cause of the pain. Shouldn’t an X-ray show something if the tooth is the problem? D’Angelo from Oakland.

 

D’Angelo,

We recommend getting a second opinion from a periodontist (gum specialist). A dentist who cannot identify the cause of your gum pain should not recommend tooth removal or any other treatment without knowing the source of the problem.

What Causes Gum Pain Between Teeth?

Gum pain between teeth can result from irritation or inflammation with several possible sources.

  • Gum disease – You may have a periodontal abscess from a deep pocket between teeth.
  • Trapped food particles – If food particles get trapped between your teeth, bacteria breed, causing inflammation and infection if left untreated.
  • Trauma – Aggressive flossing, brushing, or cuts from complex objects can damage your gums and cause inflammation.
  • Oral habits – Teeth grinding, clenching, or repeatedly putting pressure on your teeth with your tongue can irritate gum tissue.

A periodontist will check the pockets between your teeth for signs of an irritant or gum disease.

porcelain veneer being placed on a tooth

Get a second opinion to determine the cause of swelling near a porcelain veneer tooth

Daily flossing between your teeth can remove debris your toothbrush cannot reach. It is unlikely to develop gum disease when you floss regularly. If you haven’t done so already, please thoroughly floss between the teeth or use a water flosser to flush out debris. Many people who dislike dental floss find it easier to use a water flosser, which can also be more thorough than dental floss.

Regardless, please don’t allow your dentist to remove your tooth, get a second opinion from a periodontist or a dentist with advanced training in gum health and disease treatment.

The condition should not threaten your porcelain veneer tooth. However, if that tooth is somehow affected, only allow a skilled cosmetic dentist to work on anything that affects the porcelain veneer.

Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.