I received four porcelain veneers a little over six months ago. For the most part, they’ve been okay. My gums have been tender but I figured that was normal after a procedure. The other issue I had was the teeth next to them are obviously darker because of their age and stains. I was considering asking my dentist to whiten my teeth at my last appointment. However, the hygienist told me I’m developing gum disease. I had noticed my gums occasionally bleeding when I brushed but I thought that was from the tenderness. I don’t know where the gum disease could be coming from. I’ve always been super diligent with my oral healthcare and had healthy gums. Could this be the result of the porcelain veneers?

Penny

Dear Penny,

There are a couple of things going on here which make me wonder about your dentist. First, you said they only did four porcelain veneers and because of that you need to do teeth whitening. Most cosmetic dentists will do between six to ten veneers depending on the width of the patient’s smile for this very reason.

It’s unlikely you’ll be able to get an exact match for the color of your veneers but it will make them match a little better. If you want an exact match, you’ll need to have more veneers placed.

The second thing which worries me is your gums. Porcelain veneers do not cause bleeding gums, but if your dentist didn’t place them correctly then that can. I want you to get a second opinion. Ask the dentist if it looks like you have bulky margins. Don’t tell him who did your veneers, just let him know about the tenderness and bleeding gums.

I’m thinking your dentist didn’t get the veneers flush against your teeth and gums the way he should have. That would create a tiny shelf at the top of your veneers allowing food and bacteria to get trapped there. This would lead to both tenderness, bleeding gums, and if not dealt with quickly, gum disease.

If this is what you’re dealing with, you’ll need to have the case redone. I wouldn’t have your dentist do it again. He’s lacking some skill and he doesn’t even realize it. Otherwise, they would have recognized the true problem at your checkup.

Instead, ask for a refund and go to an expert cosmetic dentist to redo the case, this time with the proper number of veneers so you won’t have to bleach your teeth.

Who Should Place Your Porcelain Veneers?

To get a gorgeous smile makeover, you want a dentist with extensive experience and both technical skill and artistry. Finding that type of dentist is easier now than it used to be. Realizing patients wouldn’t be able to tell the experts from those just developing their skill, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) began an accreditation program.

To get accredited, dentists have to pass stringent oral and written exams demonstrating their technical knowledge. Additionally, they have to provide a large number of specific cases they’ve performed to show they’re artistic as well and can truly provide a gorgeous smile.

You’ll want to have an AACD accredited dentist to do your new veneers.

This blog is brought to you by Hilton Head Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.