I received porcelain veneers last September, and I’m beginning to think that I should have asked for Invisalign instead. My veneers have been a source of stress for me for several reasons: the canine teeth are crooked, there is a line above the porcelain veneer on my left, center front tooth. My dentist told me that it’s difficult to see anything wrong, and the imperfections are small. She said that the mishaps make my smile look natural because no one has a perfect smile. Doesn’t that sound like a crock? I’ve read online about the gaps between veneers and teeth. I’m concerned about tooth decay and needing new veneers.
At this point, I don’t know if I can trust my dentist to redo the veneer—or if she will correct it at all because she thinks it looks natural. Is it too late to get Invisalign to straighten my teeth? Thanks. Jennifer from Biloxi, MS
Jennifer,
Dr. Finley would need to examine your teeth and veneers to determine if the line above your veneer will lead to decay. A groove or ledge above a porcelain veneer will attract plaque.
What About Invisalign?
Invisalign will align your teeth without anything artificial attached to them. Although there is a low risk of Invisalign damaging your porcelain veneers, the position of your veneers isn’t correct. And Invisalign won’t correct that issue.
Improving the Look of Your Porcelain Veneers
Advanced cosmetic dentists let you preview your smile makeover in different ways before you receive the final product—porcelain veneers. You can expect:
- Wax model of your veneers
- Temporary veneers to try on and let friends or family members see your smile
- Porcelain veneers temporarily attached to your teeth
General dentists often skip one or more of the steps for previewing your veneers and letting your dentist know if you want any changes.
Dr. Finley will bond veneers on only if you love your new smile
A cosmetic dentist won’t ignore the aspects of your smile design that make you uncomfortable or hesitant. He or she understands that your smile, confidence, and self-image are related. And if you’re not happy with your smile, neither is your cosmetic dentist. Your dentist disconnected from this philosophy.
Request a Second Opinion
Your porcelain veneers will continue to be a source of stress until you’re confident about your smile. We recommend that you schedule an appointment for a second opinion with an accredited cosmetic dentist. If the veneers are not well made, be prepared for the cosmetic dentist to recommend replacing them. With help from your new cosmetic dentist, your current dentist may be willing to offer some compensation if you need new porcelain veneers.
David Finley, DDS, an accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry in Monroe, LA, sponsors this post.
