I had gotten four porcelain veneers. I liked them, but quickly realized my smile was wider than most and I needed to have at least two more done. I went with four more to be safe. THat did cover my smile, but the new veneers don’t match the old ones. Is there any way I can change their color?
Melissa M. – Missouri
Melissa,
I’m afraid you’ve been treated by a dentist who isn’t very skilled in cosmetic dentistry. A good cosmetic dentist would know that six is generally the minimum to cover a smile, regardless of how wide your smile is. With a wider smile, we will do eight. So, if your smile is really wide, then it is wise to do eight. Combine that with his inability to match the new veneers with the older ones and you can probably see the lack of skill.
To answer your question, unfortunately, there is no way to change the color once they are permanently placed. You’ll have to re-do them. I would go to a dentist accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). They are the highest skilled cosmetic dentists in the country. Be aware, there is a difference between a member of the AACD and someone who is accredited. It is fairly easy for a dentist to become a member. Accreditation is difficult to attain. Any of those dentists can match your porcelain veneers. You’ll likely find they can improve on the original four as well.
I suspect they can be improved, given your assesment of liking them. When they’re done well, you’ll be in love with them.
This blog is brought to you by Hilton Head Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.