My gums have been inflamed since I got porcelain veneers in February. My hygienist and dentist showed me how to brush and floss with veneers, and I followed their instructions to the letter. I had my dental cleaning appointment in late March, and the dental assistant said I must be brushing too aggressively, so my gums are inflamed. Two weeks ago, I returned to the dentist for an exam, and she removed cement and some roughness behind my teeth. She didn’t seem too concerned, but my gums are still inflamed.

I am concerned that something is wrong. Last night I thought about the veneer placement process. I wonder if the irritation is because my dentist removed the temporary veneers that I wore for five weeks but didn’t have my teeth cleaned afterward. Do I need to see a periodontist if my dentist is so casual about my gum inflammation? – Thanks. Joslyn

Joslyn,

Like most patients who get cosmetic dentistry work, you have been diligent about your oral hygiene. It’s irritating when a healthcare professional accuses the patient of doing something wrong when a healthcare provider is at fault. Although Dr. Delaune would need to examine your teeth, gums, and veneers, we can explain the possible causes of your gum inflammation.

What Causes Gum Inflammation After Getting Porcelain Veneers?

Excess cement, irregular margins, porcelain veneer position, or ceramic sensitivities can cause gum inflammation after getting porcelain veneers. We will explain.

Excess cement

If you experience gum inflammation after getting porcelain veneers, it may be because your dentist left excess cement behind. Dentists who regularly place veneers cure the cement in the middle of a tooth and remove the excess while it is still soft. When excess cement lingers, it hardens and irritates gum tissue.

Irregular margins

Unevenness, where a veneer and tooth meet, can lead to gum irritation. You may need to see a periodontist after a second opinion from an expert cosmetic dentist. We recommend getting a second opinion first.

Porcelain veneer position

Veneers placed too far under your gumline can inflame the gingival attachment—connective fibers that hold gum tissue to your teeth.

Ceramic sensitivity

Ceramic sensitivities are rare, but you may be sensitive or allergic to the material in the porcelain veneers.

Cosmetic dentists with advanced training ensure gum tissue is healthy before and after treatment. We recommend scheduling a second opinion with an expert cosmetic dentist who regularly places porcelain veneers. Allow the dentist to examine your veneers and gums and explain the next steps. Avoid mentioning your current dentist’s name or any diagnosis you got from the office to get an unbiased opinion.

 

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune of Metairie, Louisiana, sponsors this post. Read why Dr. Delaune’s patients consider him one of the best dentists in town.