I wish I had found your website before I got my teeth prepped for porcelain veneers. I did not know that my current dentist could not do cosmetic dentistry work. I wanted to even the length of my teeth, close a small gap, and fix two teeth that overlapped the others. My dentist confidently assured me that she could accomplish it with porcelain veneers. She said that she is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry member. We agreed on my tooth shape and color. My dentist prepped my teeth for veneers. I am wearing the temporary veneers now. The temporary veneers are light beige and make my teeth stick out. I noticed it immediately after my dentist put them on, and I complained. She was upset with me and said I needed to wear them for a week. If I did not like them, she would see what she could do. She will see what she can do?! That is not acceptable for the thousands of dollars she will charge me.

My dentist’s attitude makes me afraid of what will happen next. That is why I am asking your office about it. Can I switch dentists in the middle of porcelain veneer treatment if she fails to do what she promised? I am trying not to think too far ahead of myself because I already suffer from anxiety. Thank you. Micah from NV

 

Micah,

Thank you for contacting Dr. LeSage’s office. We are sorry to hear about your porcelain veneers nightmare. We are happy that you are interrupting the process.

Switch Dentists in the Middle of Porcelain Veneers?

Yes, you can switch dentists in the middle of porcelain veneer treatment. And we recommend that you do it before it is too late for your teeth and smile. Some disappointed patients seek ways to remove their veneers, which is impossible. So getting help now is wise.

• Find an advanced cosmetic dentist in your area.
• Look at the dentist’s bio (“about the dentist” page) for information about their education, training, or cosmetic dentistry awards.
• Search for the dentist’s name online to confirm their history.
• And look at their website smile gallery of before-and-after porcelain veneers cases.

Please do not give up. But schedule a consultation with at least two cosmetic dentists accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Those credentials can give you confidence that you will get a beautiful smile. Be willing to drive a reasonable distance to get healthy, natural-looking results.

Cosmetic Dentistry Membership Is Not Enough

Even if your dentist is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, it does not mean that she has cosmetic dentistry training. Your dentist’s attitude about your teeth is too casual to let her continue with your smile makeover. Any dentist can join the Academy. Although many members are excellent cosmetic dentists, it is always best to check a dentist’s credentials or ask for their verification. Get further details on minimizing the risk of needing a new dentist.

Best wishes for your smile makeover.

Dr. Brian LeSage, an accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry in Beverly Hills, California, sponsors this post. See examples of Dr. LeSage’s work in his smile gallery.