I have six new porcelain veneers and floss catches under my right incisor. My dentist says my gums cover the area where the veneers catch, so it should be fine. However, floss doesn’t catch on to any of the other veneers. I’m afraid this will become a problem later, and my dentist won’t acknowledge that she ignored it. What should I ask her to do to correct it? Thanks. Sheryl
Sheryl,
It sounds like you have an overhang.
What Is a Dental Overhang?
An overhang is a dental irregularity that causes bulkiness where the restoration and tooth meet. An inaccurate dental impression after preparing a tooth for a veneer can lead to an overhang. The faulty impression prevents the laboratory technician from creating a veneer with a smooth transition between the restoration and the natural tooth structure.
Overhang on the upper tooth near the gumline
The ideal outcome is a veneer that seamlessly replicates the tooth’s original contour at the gumline, as shown in the top right drawing. The bottom drawing illustrates an overhang with a less-than-perfect transition between the veneer and the tooth. This flaw warrants veneer replacement at no cost.
Overhangs create two primary concerns:
- Increased Risk of Decay: While not guaranteed, overhangs can create areas where bacteria can accumulate, potentially leading to decay beneath the restoration.
- Gum Irritation and Disease: Overhangs often irritate the gum tissue, leading to inflammation, redness, and bleeding.
To address this issue, ask your dentist for a new porcelain veneer. If she declines, you may need to seek treatment from another dental professional, incurring additional costs. Meanwhile, diligent oral hygiene, including daily flossing, especially around the affected area, can help minimize irritation and potential complications.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.