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Is My Mouthwash Discoloring My Porcelain Veneers?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Is my mouthwash discoloring my porcelain veneers? About eight months ago, I had 12 porcelain veneers placed on my upper teeth. Since then, I’ve used Listerine mouthwash, a firm-bristled toothbrush, and Colgate toothpaste. Recently, I’ve noticed that my veneers look a little grayish.

I’m concerned that these products may have ruined my veneers. When I had the veneers placed, no one gave me specific care instructions. – Thanks. Jackie S.

Jackie,

Unfortunately, your dentist didn’t provide specific aftercare instructions for your porcelain veneers.

Will Mouthwash Discolor Porcelain Veneers?

Alcohol-based mouthwash may harm porcelain veneers. Let’s review your current hygiene routine:

  • Listerine: Alcohol-containing mouthwashes can harm porcelain veneers. Consider switching to an alcohol-free option. This blog post provides more information about alcohol-free mouthwash alternatives.
  • Toothbrush: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage your veneers. Choose a soft-bristled brush, which is generally more effective at cleaning teeth.
  • Colgate Toothpaste: Colgate toothpaste is generally safe for porcelain veneers. Whitening toothpaste can be abrasive. However, some specialized toothpastes like Supersmile, including porcelain veneers, are formulated for cosmetic dentistry work.

What Causes Discoloration of Porcelain Veneers?

While these factors can negatively impact the longevity of your veneers, they are unlikely to cause a general graying of the veneers. The factors below can cause veneer discoloration:

  • Veneer Material: There’s a possibility that the material used for your veneers isn’t genuine porcelain.
  • Veneer Damage: Damage to the veneer’s surface with an ultrasonic scaler, such as Prophy Jet, or exposure to chemicals, including acidulated fluoride. If you’ve recently had a dental cleaning, ask about the cleaning methods used. A Prophy Jet can be harmful to porcelain veneers.

Consult a cosmetic dentist experienced in veneer care to determine why your porcelain veneers are turning gray.

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.

How Can I Find a Dentist to Bleach My Porcelain Veneers?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

How can I find a dentist to bleach my porcelain veneers? I got my teeth whitened before getting porcelain veneers. My family dentist assured me she could match the veneers to my teeth. However, when my dentist showed the shade tab for veneers, the whitest shade was darker than my teeth. So, now I have veneers and am self-conscious because the four veneers on my front teeth do not match the teeth around them. Can I get my porcelain veneers bleached? I’m afraid to ask my dentist because she would want to bleach the veneers, and I no longer trust her. Thanks. Sydneigh

 

Sydneigh,

True cosmetic dentists are sensitive to aesthetics.

How Can You Find a Dentist to Bleach Your Porcelain Veneers?

One porcelain veneer held by dental forceps

Porcelain veneer

Porcelain veneers are colorfast, and bleaching will not lighten them. Although you won’t be able to find a dentist to bleach your veneers, a cosmetic dentist and ceramist can make your porcelain veneers as white as you want—even brighter than bleached natural teeth.

Understanding Dentistry Shade Guides

Many dentists are not artistic and lack the training and experience to match your veneers and teeth. A supplemental shade guide for bleached teeth is four shades brighter than B1, which dental schools teach is the brightest. Some dentists are unaware of the supplemental shade guide for bleached teeth.

If you want a beautiful smile makeover and porcelain veneers matching your natural teeth, schedule consultations with at least two cosmetic dentists. Look for dentists with post-graduate training in aesthetics. Visit the smile gallery on the dentist’s website to see before-and-after patient photos of cases like yours.

During the consultation, each dentist should explain, in terms you understand, how they will color-match new porcelain veneers to your teeth.

Ask Your Dentist for a Refund

Your dentist didn’t deliver what you wanted—porcelain veneers that match your whitening teeth. Ask your dentist for a refund. If she refuses, you can explain that you will leave a negative online review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. You can also report the issue to the state dental Board. Although the Board may not reprimand your dentist, your complaint will be on file.

Best wishes for a smooth resolution.

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Delaune strives to be among the best dentists in Metairie.

 

Porcelain Veneers for My Crooked Teeth or Invisalign?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I’m trying to decide whether to get porcelain veneers for my crooked teeth or Invisalign. I just got engaged last weekend. I wasn’t expecting it so soon, but I am incredibly happy. I am regretting that I didn’t get Invisalign before now. I have several crooked front teeth, and now I am in a rush to get them straightened out before October 2024. I want a beautiful smile for my wedding pictures. We were thinking about engagement pictures, but I don’t want to send photos of me smiling with crooked teeth. Maybe I just won’t smile for the engagement pictures, but that would seem strange. Is a year enough time for Invisalign, or should I get porcelain veneers? Thanks. Raleigh

Raleigh,

One porcelain veneer held by dental forceps

Porcelain veneer

Congratulations on your engagement! You need to receive an examination to determine how long it would take to straighten your teeth with Invisalign. Of course, porcelain veneers are faster, but a cosmetic dentist can help you compare your options.

Porcelain Veneers for Crooked Teeth or Invisalign?

Porcelain veneers can straighten mild cases of crooked teeth, but so can Invisalign. A consultation will help you compare which treatment options are available to you based on several factors:

  • Teeth condition – Your teeth and gums must be healthy before cosmetic dentistry with porcelain veneers or Invisalign.
  • Teeth position – Porcelain veneers can correct mildly crooked teeth. However, orthodontic treatment corrects complex cases.
  • Your preferences – A cosmetic dentist must prepare your teeth for porcelain veneers by removing tiny amounts of enamel from the fronts of your teeth. Also, porcelain veneers only correct the teeth that show when you smile. If you want all your teeth aligned, you may prefer Invisalign.
  • Your timeline – Porcelain veneers straighten crooked teeth faster than Invisalign. However, Invisalign aligners are virtually Invisible and may not be noticeable in your pictures. Also, you can remove the aligners for your wedding day. Your dentist or an orthodontist can project how well your teeth will be aligned by your wedding date.
  • Your budget –Porcelain veneers can cost $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth, depending on the dentist’s fees and where you live in the US. Invisalign is less expensive.

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

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

 

Can I Get Porcelain Veneers Over Front Tooth Fillings?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I have fillings on all my front teeth across my smile, from canine to canine. I’ve had tooth decay since childhood and have had the fillings for as long as I can remember. I’m interested in porcelain veneers but wonder if I qualify for them since I have dental fillings on my front teeth. I would like something to hide the discoloration in my teeth, and I prefer something that lasts longer than dental bonding. Will Lumineers work? I’ve heard they are fast and a little cheaper than high-end veneers. Thanks. Lenore

Lenore,

We understand your concerns about discoloration in your teeth and desiring a solution that lasts longer than dental bonding.

Can a Dentist Cover Tooth Fillings with Porcelain Veneers?

A dentist can cover your tooth fillings with porcelain veneers. The bonding material for porcelain veneers and the composite for tooth fillings are compatible. Your veneers will not loosen or fall off due to the fillings.

However, if you want stable, natural-looking results with porcelain veneers, find a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training. Cosmetic dentists understand how to prepare your teeth conservatively for porcelain veneers and bond them for strength. Over-preparing your teeth can expose the dentin beneath your tooth enamel. Veneers do not adhere well to dentin, so that over-preparation can loosen them.

What Is Porcelain Veneer Preparation?

Porcelain veneer preparation removes a tiny amount of tooth enamel from the fronts of your teeth. Minimal preparation can help veneers fit well where the veneers meet your gum line. Preparation helps veneers look natural, not bulky.

Lumineers for Tooth Discoloration

A single porcelain veneer - for info on Lumineers

A skilled cosmetic dentist can anticipate the results you will get with Lumineers vs other porcelain veneer brands.

Most advanced cosmetic dentists prefer other brands over Lumineers for better aesthetics. Lumineers often make teeth look opaque. However, after examining your teeth, a skilled cosmetic dentist will explain your options.

Look for a Highly Trained Cosmetic Dentist

We recommend scheduling consultations with at least two dentists with post-graduate training in cosmetic dentistry. You can get natural-looking results.

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

No Problems with Inflamed Gums Until I Got Porcelain Veneers

Posted on by AllSmiles.

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

Red, inflamed gums after getting porcelain veneers

A case of gum inflammation around two lateral incisors with new porcelain veneers. See an expert cosmetic dentist if you experience gum irritation.

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.

Another Lumineer Popped Off My Tooth. It’s the Third Time.

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I got Lumineers placed on 8 teeth upper teeth in 2022. Last July, two of them popped off for no reason. I returned them to my dentist, and she bonded them back at no cost. Last night another one popped off. Fortunately, I was at home this time. The previous times I was in public, and really embarrassed. I can’t return to the same dentist now because I moved over 200 miles away, although I am still in Texas. Why are the Lumineers popping off, and what should I do now? Will I need new Lumineers? Thank you. Dinah from Sumter, SC

Dinah,

Thank you for contacting Delaune Dental in Metairie about your Lumineers. We understand your concerns and the embarrassment of faulty cosmetic dentistry.

Why Are Your Lumineers Popping Off?

A single porcelain veneer - for info on Lumineers

A skilled cosmetic can inspect your Lumineers for stability.

If your Lumineers periodically pop off, it is likely because your dentist did not correctly bond them to your teeth. With proper bonding and proper care, porcelain veneers should remain in place for the life of the veneers—15 to 20 years or longer.

In addition to veneers falling off, improper bonding can result in veneers staining, discoloring, and sensitivity in the veneered teeth. Some people experience decay in teeth behind the veneers due to faulty boning techniques.

Schedule an Exam with an Experienced Cosmetic Dentist

It is vital to the longevity of your cosmetic dentistry treatment to find an experienced cosmetic dentist who is skilled with current bonding techniques. Make an appointment with an experienced cosmetic dentist to restore the Lumineer that fell off and examine the others. The dentist will recommend a treatment plan to ensure all your veneers are stable and stop the Lumineers from popping off individually. You should only need new Lumineers if the dentist determines that yours are defective.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

Dentist Agreed to Composite Veneers and Then Declined

Posted on by AllSmiles.

After three consultations with dentists about teeth whitening and composite veneers, I selected a dentist close to my job. My teeth are uneven, chipped, and discolored. I’ve had teeth whitening by a dentist before, but it made the other problems more noticeable. My dentist did the whitening and said we could wait a week or two before the color stabilizes to see if I want to continue whitening. Then he said we could discuss what I wanted for my porcelain veneers. Before I let this dentist do my teeth whitening, we agreed to composite veneers, not porcelain. I reminded the dentist that we decided that I could get composite veneers. Then he said that he only does porcelain veneers.

I chose composite veneers because of my budget and desire to see how it looks. If I like it, why would I agree to tooth preparation for porcelain veneers? The composite costs less, I can try it out, and if I don’t like the dentist’s work, I can pursue other options. Isn’t this my choice? What can I do about a dentist who will only do porcelain veneers for me? Thanks, Paul from Columbus, OH

Paul,

Thank you for contacting Delaune Dental in Metairie. We encourage you to get a second opinion from an experienced cosmetic dentist.

Composite Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers

The differences between composite veneers and porcelain veneers include their composition, process, longevity, aesthetics, and required skills.

  • Composition – Dental composite, a mixture of plastic resin and glass, makes composite veneers. Porcelain veneers are dental ceramics.
  • Process – For composite veneers, a dentist will layer composite bonding directly on your teeth while you sit in a dental chair. A dental lab crafts porcelain veneers, which are custom made to fit the fronts of your teeth.
  • Longevity – High-quality composite veneers can last five years or longer but are not stain resistant. Porcelain veneers last eight to over 15 years and are stain resistant.
  • Aesthetics – An artistic cosmetic dentist can select shades of dental composite and layer them on your teeth for natural results. Dental ceramics for porcelain veneers mimic natural teeth more closely than other options.
  • Skills – Both porcelain veneers and composite veneers require artistic talent. Not all cosmetic dentists offer composite veneers because they need much care and details to look natural.

Your dentist may lack enough training in dental composite to achieve beautiful results. That may be why he insists on porcelain veneers.

If you want composite veneers, schedule a consultation with an advanced cosmetic dentist. Look at the dentist’s website to confirm that they work with composite. You can also look at the dentist’s smile gallery of composite veneers or composite bonding. The dentist will examine your teeth to ensure they are healthy after teeth whitening and explain which options will conceal the imperfections in your teeth.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

Before and after composite veneers photos

Dr. Delaune transformed this patient’s smile with composite bonding.

Why Do My Inner Lips Catch on My Porcelain Veneers?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

In November last year, I got 8 porcelain veneers on my front teeth, but my teeth catch on them. I trusted my dentist of 15 years for veneers. I have seen the work she has done for patients and have always felt that it looked great. A smile makeover was important for me as I turned 40 years old. I saved money for it so that I wouldn’t need financing. My dentist was confident that she could produce the smile I wanted. I got veneers to boost my career and help clients focus on my presentation instead of my bad smile. Despite the mockups and trials with the veneers, I have a new smile that I actually hate. Two veneers aren’t smooth, and my inner lip catches on them. It’s a mess that my dentist can’t seem to correct, even though I’ve been back to her six times. I’m not angry at my dentist but hurt and disappointed. I really want the veneers off. I don’t want veneers anymore. What should I say to my dentist?

Why Do Your Lips Catch on Your Porcelain Veneers?

If your lips catch on your porcelain veneers, a skilled cosmetic dentist may need to adjust your bite. Or, you may need new veneers. Only after an examination could a dentist accurately identify the source of your concerns.

We suggest that you schedule an appointment with an accredited cosmetic dentist. They will examine your veneers and determine how to correct your smile. Minor adjustments may be needed to prevent your lips from catching on your porcelain veneers, but other issues might lead to replacing the problematic veneers.

What Happens If You Don’t Want Porcelain Veneers Anymore?

One porcelain veneer held by dental forceps

Porcelain veneer

If you do not want porcelain veneers anymore, in most cases, a dentist can only replace them with new veneers. Most often, a dentist prepares your teeth by removing a tiny amount of tooth enamel from the fronts of your teeth. If a dentist prepared your teeth, it is no longer possible to return to your natural teeth without some cosmetic dentistry to protect them.

Although you have an established relationship with your dentist, she may need more training to provide beautiful porcelain veneers that function correctly.

Request a Porcelain Veneers Consultation

We recommend consulting with an advanced cosmetic dentist to resolve your concerns.

A few tips:

  • Ask friends or family members for an advanced cosmetic dentist.
  • Check the dentist’s credentials on their website.
  • Read patient reviews.
  • Check the dentist’s website smile gallery of porcelain veneers.
  • Only allow a dentist to redo your porcelain veneers if you are confident in their ability.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

Porcelain Veneers for Overlapped Teeth Instead of Invisalign?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Will you please tell me if porcelain veneers can straighten my teeth? I understand that Invisalign is an option, but at age 52, I prefer something faster than a year of orthodontic treatment. My upper teeth overlap. The overlap affects six teeth, but I realize that a dentist may see that other teeth are involved. Is there any chance that veneers might work? Thank you. Antonia from Northbrook, IL

Antonia,

Thank you for contacting us. Sometimes, porcelain veneers can straighten teeth without braces.

Can You Get Porcelain Veneers Instead of Invisalign?

One porcelain veneer held by dental forceps

Porcelain veneer

Porcelain veneers can sometimes straighten teeth instead of Invisalign, but they have limitations. If you have mild overlap, porcelain veneers may be an option. Veneers can improve tooth shape and shade, too. After an examination and x-rays, a cosmetic dentist will determine whether veneers can help. These steps may improve your overlapped teeth:

Will You Need Orthodontics Before Veneers?

A cosmetic dentist may recommend orthodontics before veneers in these cases:

  • Cross-bite
  • Your palate requires expansion
  • The degree of tooth rotation
  • Missing teeth
  • Extra teeth

Mispositioned opposing teeth can break or displace porcelain veneers.

Are You a Porcelain Veneers Candidate?

You may be a porcelain veneer candidate if your teeth and gums are healthy. Otherwise, a dentist must resolve tooth decay or gum disease before recommending cosmetic dentistry. Also, the dentist will explain alternative treatment methods for a healthy and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Request a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

During a cosmetic dentistry consultation, you can meet with the doctor to discuss your concerns about your teeth. The dentist may take pictures, scans, and x-rays of your teeth to assess their condition and whether porcelain veneers, Invisalign, or another treatment will give you the best results.

 

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

Will Bonding Work for My Peg Lateral Teeth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I have peg teeth on my left and right incisors. Also, the left tooth sticks out a little farther than my other teeth. I am self-conscious about my small teeth and do not smile for pictures. Is bonding enough to correct them, or will I need additional treatment? Thank you. Brielle from Spokane, WA

Brielle,

Thank you for choosing Dr. Delaune’s office for your question. Dr. Delaune would need to examine and x-ray your teeth to determine your treatment options, but we will discuss treatment in general.

What Are Peg Lateral Teeth?

Peg lateral teeth are lateral incisors located next to the central incisors (center front teeth). According to the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, peg laterals affect about two percent of the U.S. population. More women than men have small, misshaped lateral incisors. What cosmetic dentistry treatment can correct peg laterals?

What Are the Treatment Options for Peg Laterals?

Treatment options for peg lateral teeth may include cosmetic bonding, contouring, orthodontic treatment, porcelain crowns, or porcelain veneers. A dentist will examine your teeth and gums and x-ray them to evaluate their health and position. Your case may require one or more of these treatments:

  • Cosmetic bonding – A cosmetic dentist can blend composite to match the color and translucence of your natural teeth. Bonding is not as stain resistant and durable as porcelain veneers. The dentist will clean and lightly etch the tooth before applying a bonding agent to it. Afterward, the dentist will shape the composite to lengthen your small teeth. After hardening and further shaping your tooth, the dentist will polish it. Your lengthened teeth will seamlessly blend with your natural teeth. If you take diligent care of your teeth, the bonding can last ten years or more.
  • Gum contouring – Gum contouring is an option if it will not expose tooth roots and create sensitivity in your teeth. At times, dentists use gum contouring with porcelain veneers. A dental laser can shorten your gumline around your lateral incisors so they appear longer.
  • Orthodontic treatment – If your lateral incisors have not fully erupted or if they are not in the correct position, a cosmetic dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment.
  • Porcelain crowns – Dental crowns can cover peg lateral incisors. Your dentist may recommend crowns if your teeth are weak or otherwise unhealthy. Crowns require aggressive tooth preparation, so cosmetic dentists use them as a last option for restoring teeth. A dental ceramist can manipulate ceramic crowns to match your natural teeth.
  • Porcelain veneers – After preparing the fronts of your lateral incisors, a dentist can apply custom-made porcelain shells to them. Veneers are stain resistant and can last 15 years or longer if you take care of them and get regular maintenance from a cosmetic dentist.

Whether a dentist restores your peg laterals with porcelain veneers or another cosmetic dentistry treatment, the aesthetics and durability depend on the skill of your cosmetic dentist. We recommend scheduling consultations with two advanced cosmetic dentists to discuss and compare your options.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana, cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Before-and-after small teeth photos from Dr. Duane Delaune of Metairie, LA

Porcelain veneers photos from Dr. Duane Delaune of Metairie, Louisiana