My dentist is planning to replace the crowns on my four front teeth, but she also recommends six veneers—three on either side of the crowns to broaden my smile. She said the veneers would make it look like I had a complete smile makeover.
I agreed to my dentist’s plan. She completed the work on Wednesday, and my teeth began to hurt on Friday. I had a follow-up visit the following Tuesday and described my symptoms. She said my teeth grinding was the problem and loosened one of the porcelain veneers. My dentist made a bite plate but said I would probably need the veneers placed with crowns because of the force of my bite. Another veneer fell off yesterday while I was eating dinner. I’m thankful that I didn’t swallow it. If my bite is causing my veneers to fall off, do I really need crowns instead? – Thanks. Gianna
Gianna,
Porcelain veneer
Your dentist may be right, but we are suspicious that your dentist may find a problem with your bite after placing your porcelain veneers rather than before. We recommend getting a second opinion from an expert cosmetic dentist.
Although many dentists claim to be cosmetic dentists because it’s a profitable area, the skill requires much post-graduate training.
Can You Wear Porcelain Veneers If You Grind Your Teeth?
In general, you can wear porcelain veneers if you grind your teeth. Depending on the force of your bite, your dentist may ask you to wear a night guard to protect your veneers from the force of teeth grinding.
However, a second opinion will help you determine if your bite or the dentist’s bonding technique is why your veneers are falling off. Search online for dentists with post-graduate training in cosmetic dentistry, schedule consultations with at least two dentists, and compare the treatments they recommend.
Dr. Brian LeSage, a Beverly Hills accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry, sponsors this post.