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Will teeth whitening hurt my baby?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I have been planning my smile makeover for forever. I literally got the treatment plan from my dentist two years ago, but because insurance won’t cover most of it, I’ve had to save. My plan was to start with teeth whitening and then replace my metal fillings and then do some veneers. Well, I got the teeth whitening done a couple weeks ago and my appointment to start the rest of the work is next week. I just found out I’m pregnant. I don’t even know how far along I am, but I’m sure I must have been when I had my teeth whitened. Everything I can find says that you shouldn’t bleach your teeth while you’re pregnant, but nothing tells me why. Could I have hurt the baby?  — A Terrified Mama to Be

Dear Terrified Mama,
Relax and take a couple of deep breaths. There is no evidence to suggest any harm will come to your little one. In order for any kind of drug, medical material, or piece of medical equipment to be deemed safe during pregnancy, it has to get FDA clearance. The only way to get this is by having controlled trials in which healthy babies are born after the product has been used on the expectant mother. Naturally, there isn’t a whole lot of interest in the medical community, or with moms-to-be, in pursuing clinical trials. That doesn’t mean it will cause harm. It simply means it hasn’t been proven to be safe.

While this might seem like a slight nuance in language, it’s everything to the FDA and to manufacturers. This is why each one will tell you to either consult your doctor or not to use it if you’re expecting. There have been no reports whatsoever recognized by a reputable agency of babies being harmed by tooth whitening products. The warnings are simply a protective measure.

If you’re still concerned, have a chat with your OB/GYN. She’ll likely set your mind at ease. With that said, you may want to hold off on the additional cosmetic work until after you’ve delivered. Restorative treatment needed due to decay is generally ok after the first trimester and with clearance from your OB, but cosmetic work is usually on the no-no list because of the anesthetic and stress. Your OB may advise you otherwise, though, so always defer to her for treatment going forward. You can pick up where you left off with the cosmetic work after the baby is born. If need be, a few days of whitening at home should be able to boost your color back up to where it is now.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Help…my gums look uneven after porcelain veneers

Posted on by smiles4u.

I recently saved up to get porcelain veneers and was so excited when I was finally able to get the appointment scheduled and get the process going. One of the main things I was concerned about was how uneven the bottoms of my teeth were. My dentist assured me that the veneers would look great and I even tried them on before they were cemented and was very pleased with how they looked. Now that they are permanently placed and I’ve had more time to really look at them, I’m noticing that my gums look uneven. I didn’t see it before the veneers, so I’m not sure if they did something wrong? It’s frustrating because I’m still not happy with how my smile looks. Can my dentist fix this or is it something I will just have to learn to live with? — Annika

Annika,
Did your dentist mention that he would have to make any adjustments to your gums as part of your porcelain veneer prep? The technical term he would likely use would be “gingivectomy” or “gingival surgery” but some dentists will refer to it as “recontouring “ or even a “ginge.” A procedure such as this should have been discuss with you up front so that you could give your consent, but if it was done in a more casual, conversational manner maybe there was a miscommunication. However, if you don’t remember addressing the topic at all, it likely wasn’t done. The fact that you are noticing the uneven gums now is probably because your teeth are straighter. You should ask your dentist for sure, however.

Any gumline issues should be talked about during the consultation process, and if any reshaping is needed it’s done during the preparation. There is no way to correct the problem now because removing gum tissue will likely expose the margin. Not only will that look even worse asthetically, it also puts your teeth at risk of decay. Schedule a follow-up appointment so you can talk to your dentist about your concerns. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this issue would be to request a do-over.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

What can I do to cover tetracycline stains?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I have had gray stained teeth as a result of tetracycline for many years. All I really want is to have nice, white teeth. I’ve seen and heard a lot of negative stories about porcelain veneers and Lumineers. I’ve also researched bonding. What procedure would give the best results for my situation? — Adrianna in Tennessee

Adrianna,
Tetracycline stains the teeth from the inside out and are very difficult to remedy – particularly with traditional teeth whitening. The best procedure to mask the stains is probably porcelain veneers. While Lumineers might be a cheaper option, keep in mind that they are very thin and the dark enamel might show through. You’ll have similar problems with cosmetic bonding, plus bonding is also susceptible to staining and it is not as durable as porcelain veneers.

Porcelain veneers will give you the best result because they will completely mask  and cover the dark enamel. What’s even better is that the procedure is much less invasive compared to other treatments (i.e. porcelain crowns) and if you have them done by an expert cosmetic dentist,  you shouldn’t have any pain or sensitivity. The result will be a beautiful, natural-looking smile you will be proud to show your family and friends.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Can I whiten my teeth inexpensively at home?

Posted on by smiles4u.

A few years ago, I was able to save up so I could afford an in-office bleaching procedure. I was very happy with the results, but I really can’t afford to do it again. I’d love to find a cheaper alternative that I could do at home, but will I be able to achieve the same results?
–Sam

Sam,
Just imagine living in during 17th or 18th century where teeth whitening meant saving down your teeth and bathing them in acid. Thankfully, for us, teeth whitening has come a long way since then and you now have all sorts of options to choose from depending on your budget, how quickly you want to get the job done or how white you want to go.

Today, most dental offices offer custom-made whitening trays. While you’ll get similar results as the in-office treatments, it takes longer. The trays are yours to keep for later use, so that means only a one-time expense as long as you take good care of them and there are no changes to your mouth. The only thing you need to do is purchase the whitening gel from your dentist as needed.

If you’re lucky enough, some dentists offer free bleaching trays and gel on a regular basis at your first visit as in incentive to continue with routine cleanings and check-ups.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

What are the chances of all-on-4 implant failure?

Posted on by smiles4u.

Hello,

My teeth have caused me nothing but trouble my whole life. I don’t have very many left and my dentist has agreed to pull them so I can get dentures. He mentioned all-on-4s as an alternative to removable dentures because it will be more permanent. I do like the idea, but am concerned because a friend of mine had all-on-4s and something went terribly wrong with one of the implants. I’ve had enough trouble with my teeth and don’t want to risk going through what she did if this is something common that can happen. — Sharon

Sharon,

You are right to do your research and ask questions up front. While the all-on-4 procedure has been a hot topic recently for the reasons that you mention, you can relax a little bit and know that the problems your friend experienced are very rare. Implant failure happens in a very small percentage of patients.

Your success mostly hinges on the skill level of your dentist. To ensure you have a good outcome with the procedure, find a dentist who is educated and experienced with all-on-4, and ask the following questions:

  • Where he/she learned the procedure
  • If he/she has had any continuing education on all-on-4s
  • How long he/she has been performing the all-on-4 procedure and how many patients they have treated
  • Has there been any failures and what is the most common complication his/her patients have experienced

As with any medical procedure, your health will also play an important role.  Be sure your dentist thoroughly reviews your medical history to determine if you are at risk for implant failure. And if you are aware of any risks in your medical history, such as periodontal disease, bone loss, diabetes – or if you smoke, be sure to discuss all those risk factors open and honestly.

All-on-4s have a very high success rate, but asking questions and educating yourself before the procedure will put your mind at ease and ensure the best outcome possible.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Is it possible to refurbish my 20-year-old porcelain veneers?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’ve had porcelain veneers for 20 years and they have lasted just about the length of time my dentist said they would. I got them because my teeth were stained by tetracycline and at the time, whitening treatments were not readily available like they are today. I would have liked to have gone that route, but my dentist said whitening treatments aren’t really effective on tetracycline stains.

I’ve been pretty happy with my teeth, however, in the last six months to a year, I have noticed a gap forming between the veneers. When I eat, food seems to get caught. Also, I am starting to have a space at the top of the veneers and the gum line. Can my veneers be removed for new ones or is there a way that I can “refurbish” them? — Nancy

Nancy,
Your dentist was correct in the fact that teeth whitening or bleaching is not a good option for tetracycline staining. Even if you had been able to lighten your teeth, they would never have been perfectly white.

It is possible to touch up porcelain veneers by polishing them and smoothing off the margins. However, what you are describing sounds like you might need to have them replaced. The space developing between the veneer and your gumline is likely a result of your gums receding a little and exposing some of the tooth. With tetracycline staining such as yours, it could be noticeable if the space continues to get worse.

If you have to go the replacement route, be sure to do your homework. Many dentists who say they can cover tetracycline stains often lack the skill and artistry required for true, high quality cosmetic dentistry – and these stubborn stains require the best cosmetic dentist you can find.

As for the life expectancy of veneers – even though your dentist told you they would last twenty years they could have possibly lasted longer. Your situation sounds more like the issues may have been caused from changes specific to your teeth, rather than the veneers deteriorating themselves.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

How can I avoid my sister’s porcelain veneer nightmare?

Posted on by smiles4u.

My sister and I are grown adults with families, careers and homes of our own and yet, it always seems like we are competing against one another in everything – even our smiles. I have some spaces between my teeth and a few chips here and there that have made me self-conscious over the years so I decided to start saving for veneers. My sister found out and of course, she had to get veneers before me.

She has had nothing but problems with hers. I’m not sure how to explain it, but I don’t think they look natural at all. They seem to be the right color, but they look fake. I am not sure if this is a result of something she has done, but a couple of them have fallen off.  It has taken me quite a while to save up for this so I don’t want to have these same problems. How can I be sure I get a beautiful smile that lasts?

Sincerely,
Lisa

Dear Lisa,
It sounds like that crazy competitive spirit has followed you and your sister into adulthood and oftentimes these competitions can become quite ugly. But look at it this way… thanks to your sister you can save yourself from making the same costly mistakes.

The color and your perception that your sister’s porcelain veneers look fake likely has to do with the translucency. Our natural teeth absorb and reflect light, and when veneers are made to look too solid, they tend to look fake. If a dentist isn’t skilled in cosmetic dentistry and have additional training, they often can’t achieve a natural look because they don’t know how to match the opacity of a real tooth – which is just as important as matching color.

Also, veneers should not fall off. You need not be concerned that your sister did something to make that happen. Poor lab work when the veneers were created could be the problem, or an unskilled dentist doing the work.  If done correctly, porcelain veneers are extremely durable and should last for ten years or longer.

There’s a saying that goes, “I smile because you’re my sister.  I laugh because there’s nothing you can do about it.”  Do your homework and find an expert cosmetic dentist so you’re guaranteed to be smiling for years to come.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Can I get Lumineers over my caps?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I have old caps on my teeth. They are totally worn down. I like the look of Lumineers over caps. Can I get Lumineers put over the caps? Hanah

Hanah,

Lumineers, or porcelain veneers, cannot be placed over crowns, or caps. Lumineers are bonded to your natural teeth.

When you receive a dental crown, your tooth is shaved down to accommodate it. Once you receive crowns, you are unable to receive veneers. But you can visit a skilled cosmetic dentist who will provide you with new crowns that look so beautiful and natural that people will think they are your natural teeth.

Schedule consultations with a few cosmetic dentists to discuss your treatment options.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why so many people consider him to be one of the best dentists in New Orleans.

Porcelain veneer doesn’t match my teeth

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I am wearing a temporary veneer while I wait for the permanent one. When I went for the session to get the veneer to match my own teeth, my dentist pulled out a lot of different shades and held them against my teeth but none of them were a real match. She said that she would use the closest one and send instructions for it to be changed to match my teeth. Well the temporary veneer is too dark. It makes it looks as if I have a bad tooth. It looks worse than my real teeth. I am worried about this. I mentioned to my dentist that it’s too dark and she said that when the permanent veneer comes in we will work with it. What does that mean? Is it too late to do anything about it? – Lori

Lori – Make an appointment with your dentist to discuss your concern. Even if the permanent porcelain veneer arrives and doesn’t match your teeth, don’t allow it to be bonded to your tooth. Once the veneer is bonded it cannot be changed.

You can insist on a veneer that matches your natural teeth. If your dentist is unable to provide you with a match, you should seriously consider finding an experienced cosmetic dentist. He or she will work with a master ceramist to produce a beautiful veneer that looks natural and matches your natural teeth.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Can a cosmetic dentist change the length of my teeth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My teeth look too small. I’ve been self-conscious about it for years. I have put off doing anything about it because of concerns about the cost, but I really want them to look adult sized. Is there anything a cosmetic dentist can do to make them look longer? – Rebekkah S.

Rebekkah  – One option for giving your teeth a longer appearance is porcelain veneers. The veneers are bonded to the front of your teeth. They will be made to match the color of your natural teeth. You will be able to choose the shape and color of your teeth.  This is work that you definitely want done by an experienced cosmetic dentist. Check the dentist’s credentials and training in cosmetic dentist to confirm that he or she truly has artistic talent and can give you natural-looking results. You can also look on the dentist’s website for a smile gallery, or have a consultation with the dentist and ask to see pictures of his or her work.

If you have excess gum tissue that is making your teeth look too small, gum contouring or a gum lift can be performed to reveal more of your tooth structure.

Consult with a few cosmetic dentists to discuss your goals for your smile and find out your treatment options. You can also discuss payment options, including financing or payment plans that may help make the treatment affordable for you.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why so many patients think he is the best dentist in New Orleans.