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Can I fix my tooth gap with orthodontic bands?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’m trying to find an affordable and fairly quick way to fix the gap between my front teeth. Braces will take too long and I’m not in at a point in my life where I want make the time commitment. Another option my dentist recommended was porcelain veneers, but they cost an outrageous amount of money and there’s no way I can afford them. I recently read about something called orthodontic bands and I think they might be a great option for me. They fit my budget and it’s not a long-term thing because I would just wear some rubber bands around the teeth I want to move. Why hasn’t my dentist offered this? I’m afraid if I ask him, thinking he’ll brush it off because he wants more money. Are these bands a viable alternative to fix my gap? — Sharna

Dear Sharna,
There are several things to think about when it comes to these type of orthodontic bands. First and foremost, the companies that are marketing these products don’t have FDA approval. Second, it’s really not the best way to move teeth and could cause more damage than good.

Braces are designed to move your teeth in a slow, gentle and consistent manner until they are aligned perfectly. That means there will be no strange looking gaps. They do use bands, but they are metal and fit around the teeth or rubber bands are also used. Porcelain veneers don’t change the position of the teeth, but rather bond directly to the front of them to change the look.

The orthodontic bands you are asking about wrap around teeth and essentially pull them together. It can actually loosen the teeth in the process, align them incorrectly or even damage them. The gap between the two teeth wrapped in the band will look smaller, but it will increase the gap on either side. There’s also no long-term way to keep the teeth in their new position (like retainers after braces) so eventually the teeth will just move back. You should think twice about these orthodontic bands. While they may fit your budget, spending less now will likely mean spending more later to fix an even more serious issue.

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.

Is my 16-year-old daughter a candidate for implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

We have a unique situation with my daughter. Although she is old enough that she should have all of her adult teeth,  a couple didn’t come in and she still has the baby teeth. Our dentist doesn’t seem to be worried about it and says that her baby teeth could last the rest of her life. She is devastated. The teeth obviously look smaller, and while it didn’t bother her when she was younger, some of the kids at school are now noticing and making her feel very self-conscience.

She’s sixteen and has a great smile, but these teeth make her feel uncomfortable. I have been thinking about implants to replace those teeth, but when I asked the dentist, he pretty much blew the idea off without even considering how this is affecting her. It’s not like she’s just going to one day look in the mirror and decide they look ok. Will implants work? If not, what other options are there? — Judy

Judy,
While the baby teeth could last a lifetime, it’s understandable how your daughter feels about how they look. The teenage years are hard enough as it is, and it’s no fun to have your peers poke fun at something you have no control over. There are cosmetic options that can help, but at her age she’s really too young for implants. It’s best to hold off until she’s at least twenty and even then, she’ll need to have a dentist evaluate whether or not her jaw is done growing and changing.

Have you checked into a cosmetic dentist who does porcelain veneers? Veneers would cover the top and sides of the tooth, and build it up to make it look like an adult-sized tooth. There are a couple different options as far as the materials they are made of, but a cosmetic dentist will be able to recommend what’s best. As she continues to grow, her face shape will change, too. More than likely, she will need to have the veneers redone or at least adjusted every couple of years.

She can look into implants later on, but for now, a consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist to find out more about veneers would be best. He or she can evaluate your daughter’s situation fully and help you make the right choice.

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.

I want to get veneers, but I’m afraid they will cause tooth decay

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’m in need of a smile makeover, but not sure if I should go with porcelain veneers or Lumineers. Should I be concerned about tooth decay with veneers from food getting stuck under them? — Anastasia

Anastasia,
Regardless of what type of veneer you go with, if your dentist bonds them properly, there will be no gaps behind them and your smile will look very natural because the veneers fit perfectly over your teeth. Porcelain veneers themselves are not made of enamel, so they will not decay, but the exposed tooth structure is still susceptible to normal decay if you don’t keep up on your daily home care of brushing and flossing. So be diligent in your daily oral habits and don’t forget to schedule regular dental cleanings and check-ups.

You need to be sure that you get the help of a skilled cosmetic dentist. Be very thorough when doing your research – ask to see before and after photos of his or her work. Also, if you don’t have a good understanding of the difference between porcelain veneers and Lumineers, you need to ask for more information and determine which is best for you. Lumineers are simply a brand a ultra-thin veneers that don’t require teeth preparation. They work for some people, but if they are not properly placed they can cause several aesthetic problems. Porcelain veneers are more versatile and allow a dentist to custom design a perfect fit.

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.

CEREC for porcelain veneers? My dentist seems to think so…

Posted on by smiles4u.

I will be fifty soon and while I look and feel pretty great for my age, my teeth are definitely not holding up as well. I’ve chipped and cracked a couple of them and overall, they just look old and discolored. I’ve read up on porcelain veneers and I’d like to treat myself to an early birthday smile makeover. When I talked to my dentist, he recommended using his CEREC machine that is right there in the office. While I have had a crown done with CEREC, I’m not so sure it is ideal for extensive procedures like veneers. I have high expectations for my new smile, so wouldn’t it be better if he sent them to a lab? — Danielle

Danielle,
There are many dentist who use CEREC machines and claim they can get the same results that a dental lab can. If you talk to any tried and true cosmetic dentist, they would more than likely strongly disagree. Before making any sort of decision, google some photos of CEREC veneers. Hopefully you will find some before and after photos from dentists who have completed veneers this way. As you are examining them, ask yourself these these questions:

  • Is the gumline symmetrical?
  • Is the shape of the tooth natural?
  • Does the color and shading match the surrounding teeth?

While many of the smiles may look improved, if you find yourself answering no to these questions, CEREC will not give you the results you desire.

When it comes to porcelain veneers, the best results will be achieved by an experienced cosmetic dentist working closely with an expert lab technician. The best ones out there will have before and after photos of actual patients. Study the photos closely and if you have any doubts in his or her skills, keep looking. The other thing you can do is tell you dentist you would prefer traditional porcelain veneers. If he seems hesitant, it would be best not to push him into doing them. Chances are, he isn’t comfortable with them and that is a sure-fire reason to find someone who is.

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.

Single veneer replacement – should I be concerned about color match?

Posted on by smiles4u.

About a month ago, I had veneers put on my front teeth. Because of some exposed dentin, I’ve endured quite a bit of sensitivity (although it’s getting better). When I saw my dentist this week, he said he wants to correct the fit issue and replace the one veneer. Will he be able to match the color or will I have a tooth that looks different? Also, what are the chances that removing the veneer could break the tooth underneath or possible damage one of the other veneers? — Shiela

Sheila,
You should absolutely let you dentist fix this issue for you. If he or she is a skilled cosmetic dentist, they will have no problem matching the color of the new veneer to your existing ones (the lab used most likely has the color formula on record so they can make a perfect match).

As far as damaging your tooth or surrounding veneers, you should also not worry. It’s actually more of a risk to leave the veneer the way it is. The sensitivity you have been experiencing is because dentin has tubules that lead directly to the pulp. When these tubules are left open, bacteria can easily get into the pulp and cause an even bigger set of issues.

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.

Should I still be in pain two weeks after cosmetic procedure?

Posted on by smiles4u.

A month or so ago, I went to Mexico to have a cosmetic dental procedure done and now I’m afraid I made a big mistake. I had several lower crowns done and also veneers on my front upper teeth. I am in so much pain and it’s been a couple of weeks since I had it done. My jaw hurts and one tooth is almost painful to the touch and I can’t even chew soft foods. When I asked the dentist about it, he told me to take ibuprofen to help with the pain and that it’s normal after having so much work done at one time. As for the crown that I can’t even chew on, he said something about it having high contact or possibly needing a root canal. Is it bad that it doesn’t even touch my top teeth when I bite together? Is this much pain normal so long after my procedure and should I just keep taking the ibuprofen until it goes away (I’m currently taking 800mg every 4-6 hours).

Julie,
You are right to be concerned. Taking those amounts of ibuprofen for such an extended period of time is not good for you, and it sounds like it’s not really helping – it’s only masking something that is not right. They amount of pain you are experiencing is not normal after getting crowns or porcelain veneers. Tenderness or soreness for a couple of days should be expected and your bite and teeth should align.

If you are back in the United States, go find a reputable cosmetic dentist in your area – or at the very lease, a competent general dentist. Even if you have to drive an hour or two, it will be worth getting a second opinion to determine what’s wrong before the situation gets worse. Try to back off or stop taking the ibuprofen and if you do need a root canal, don’t go back to the dentist in Mexico – there are only about a handful of good cosmetic dentist in the entire country. Even in the United States, only about 1 of 50 dentists is skilled in the art of cosmetic dentistry, but you should be able to find a reputable doctor near you.

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.

Crowns or porcelain veneers for tetracycline stains?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I had porcelain veneers placed about 18 years ago to cover very severe tetracycline stains on my teeth. Even though the veneers looked gray, it was better than living with almost black teeth. Now my veneers need replaced, but when I consulted with my current dentist he and his lab tech decided on crowns instead.  I’m not sure this is the best choice… any advice?  — Ann

Dear Ann,
In this case, crowns would be a bad choice. Tell your dentist this is not an acceptable option and seek out a cosmetic dentist to get a second opinion. Since you’ve lived with your current veneers looking gray for all these years, you know that tetracycline stains are not easy to mask. But it sounds like your dentist (and the lab tech for that matter) simply don’t have the experience or skill needed for porcelain veneers – thus their reasoning for suggesting crowns. A true cosmetic dentist would not grind your teeth completely down.

If you want a beautiful, natural looking white smile, do some extra homework and find a  cosmetic dentist in your area. Even if you have to drive a few hours to find one, it will be worth the additional time and effort because you want to do this right.

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.

My sister looks like bugs bunny!

Posted on by smiles4u.

I have an identical twin sister and we happen to have identical teeth, too (they’re slightly crooked and small). For as long as I can remember, we’ve both talked about getting porcelain veneers, and she actually went ahead and had them placed by her regular dentist. While I’m glad she decided to do it, I’m trying to figure out the best way to tell her that I think they look totally fake and unnatural. To be honest, she looks like Bugs Bunny and I have to wonder if the dentist didn’t do them correctly. Her veneers look bulky and big, so I’m wondering if they can be shaved a little to make them look smaller? If they can, I might consider telling her what I think. If not, any idea what could have gone wrong? If I decide to get mine done, I want to be sure I don’t end up with the same issue. — Anika in Oklahoma

Anika,
If you and your sister are used to being honest about everything, it might be hard to keep your feelings to yourself. If you do decide to tell her what you think, be gentle and just present it as your opinion. Start the conversation by asking her if she’s happy with the length of her veneers. If she says she is, it would probably be best to leave it at that and let it go. But, if she’s not happy, you can tell her that her dentist may be able to shorten them a little, depending on the type of porcelain veneer he used and how it was prepared.

As you start thinking about your own procedure, tell your dentist up front what your expectations are and about your sister’s results. Taking a photo of her would be helpful so that he/she can understand what you consider to be too long. You may find that hers are a perfectly natural length and it’s just going to take some getting used to. Also, make sure your dentist will let you “test-drive” the porcelain veneers before they are permanently bonded. This will allow you to see exactly how they look and feel, plus give your dentist the opportunity to send them back for any adjustments that may needed.

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.

Tired of my Lumineers falling off!

Posted on by smiles4u.

I was so excited to have Lumineers placed on several of my teeth a few months back, but now they keep falling off. I’ve had to go back to my dentist to have same tooth re-bonded three times and this time I accidentally swallowed the veneer. When I asked my dentist what I should do, he suggested traditional porcelain veneers – to the tune of $1200 per tooth! It took me a long time just to save up for the Lumineers, and now he wants me to hand over even more money? What can I do? — Bradee in Tennessee

Bradee,
It sounds like your Lumineers aren’t giving you much to smile about these days… and it probably doesn’t make you feel any better to know that there are many people who have had similar experiences. Today, Lumineers are one of the most marketed brands of ultra-thin porcelain veneers. Because they are promoted it as being “no-prep” and easy to place, many dentists believe they can deliver an aesthetically pleasing product with a good outcome. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case because much like traditional porcelain veneers, Lumineers require a true cosmetic dentist who not only has an artistic eye, but uses high quality materials. Seeking an opinion of another true cosmetic dentist would be a good idea in your case. If, after that, you decide to stick with your current dentist and do the porcelain veneers, see if he will credit what you paid for the Lumineers toward the new procedure. If he wants you to truly be happy, he will do all he can to help make your situation right.

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.