I’ve got a set of porcelain veneers. I like how they look. They’re not quite as gorgeous as I’d hoped, but they’re way better than my normal teeth so I should be happy. The one thing that really bothers me is that they keep falling off. My dentist always really nice and puts them back on without charge, but they’ve fallen off three times in almost as many months. What am I doing wrong to them?
Jane B. – Rhode Island
Jane,
You’re not the problem. Your dentist is. I have a couple of things to say about this situation. First, just because your porcelain veneers are “better” than your natural teeth, doesn’t mean they are good enough. You paid for a gorgeous smile and you should be thrilled with it. You’re not thrilled with this one. I suspect that is becuase your dentist is probably a decent family dentist, but not a great cosmetic dentist. It takes more than an understanding of the technical aspects to be a great cosmetic dentist. There is an artistry involved that your dentist doesn’t seem to get.
On top of that, he doesn’t seem to even understand the technical aspects of it. Porcelain veneers should not fall off even one time–let alone three. If they are, that is a clear signal that your dentist does not understand the bonding process. IF you’re happy enough with the veneers, I would go to a different dentist to get them bonded on. If you’re not happy with them and are willing to say so, you could ask your dentist for a refund and then go to a qualified dentist to get your new set. I suggest getting someone who is AACD accredited.
This blog is brought to you by HIlton Head Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.
