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Beverly Hills Institute of Dental Esthetics
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Brian LeSage, DDS, FAGD, FAACD

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Is a Hygienist’s Ultrasonic Scaler Cracking My Porcelain Veneers?

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I had three dental cleanings using a magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler. Shortly after each cleaning, the upper lateral incisor veneers were fractured. I wonder if these incidents are related to the cleaning process. I would like to know if certain ultrasonic scalers are more prone to causing dental damage. Additionally, I’m interested in learning which companies manufacture magnetostrictive ultrasonic cleaning equipment. Thanks. Julian from NH

Julian,

There are two primary types of ultrasonic scalers: piezoelectric and magnetostrictive. The Cavitron, manufactured by Dentsply, is a well-known magnetostrictive scaler with a long history in dentistry. While generally gentler than piezoelectric scalers, magnetostrictive units require greater operator skill to prevent dental damage.

Preserving Porcelain Veneers When Using an Ultrasonic Scaler

When using ultrasonic scalers, the potential for veneer damage exists at the veneer margins. However, the fracture of an entire veneer suggests improper technique. The hygienist should never use the scaler tip directly on the porcelain surface. While these instruments are invaluable when used correctly, they can cause significant harm to untrained hands.

Beyond veneer damage, improper use can create microscopic scratches on tooth roots, promoting plaque buildup and potentially leading to gum disease or tooth decay.

A hygienist needs complete control of the instrument and awareness of the damage it could cause. Damage to your porcelain veneers can attract plaque and calculus, gradually leading to gum disease or tooth decay. If a hygienist has damaged your porcelain veneers, we recommend finding a cosmetic dentistry practice with hygienists trained in caring for esthetic dentistry work. Otherwise, the quality and condition of your veneers will continue to deteriorate.

Brian LeSage, DDS, an accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry in Beverly Hills, sponsors this post.

Why Are My Teeth Turning Dark Behind My Veneers?

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I got 16 Lumineers eight years ago. Two fell off in less than a month, and I paid for a dentist to re-bond them. I called the dentist who placed them, and he agreed to give me a partial refund. Although no veneers have fallen off within the past five years, this year, I see that my front teeth are darkening beneath the veneers. I cannot afford to replace the veneers. I regret not getting whiter ones now that these are darkening. I don’t smile half as much as I used to. What can I do about darkening veneers? Thank you. Mirella from Miami

Mirella,

You mentioned that you cannot afford to replace your Lumineers. However, addressing the cause of darkening natural teeth will protect your oral health, preventing long-term dental concerns.

What Causes Teeth to Darken Behind Porcelain Veneers?

Teeth can darken behind porcelain veneers when the veneers are leaking. Bacteria can get between the veneers and your teeth and cause tooth decay. The problem occurs when a dentist doesn’t bond the veneers properly or aggressively prepares your teeth, which can result in a weak bond. The only way to stop the leaking and potential decay is to replace the veneers.

How Can a Dentist Re-Bond Veneers Securely?

Re-bonding porcelain veneers requires a dentist to remove the bonding material and clean it off with sandblasting equipment. Most general or family dentists lack the instruments to remove bonding from porcelain veneers. Next, a dentist would etch the back of each veneer with hydrofluoric acid. After priming the veneer, a dentist can re-bond it. It should remain leak-free for many years.

You can find a cosmetic dentist to re-bond your veneers, but this will not resolve your concerns about your teeth darkening behind them. A skilled cosmetic dentist can resolve your concerns and match your new veneers to your surrounding teeth. Avoid looking for a quick, cheap fix. It will cost you even more money in the long term.

Brian LeSage, DDS, an accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry in Beverly Hills, sponsors this post.

 

 

My Dentist Wants to Replace My Porcelain Veneers with Crowns

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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,

A porcelain veneer

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.

Who Is Eligible for No-Prep Veneers?

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I want porcelain veneers, but I am hesitant about getting my teeth prepared. If a dentist recommends preparation, how do I know if I really need it? Can no-prep veneers work for any patient? – Thank you. Alexis

 

Alexis,

Several factors affect whether a patient can receive no-prep veneers.

Who Is Eligible for No-Prep Veneers?

No-prep veneers will not work for every patient because they add to the thickness of teeth and can make them look bulky. But in specific situations, they may work. What factors can affect whether you get no-prep veneers?

  • Small teeth—If you have small teeth and want them to look more prominent, you may be a candidate for no-prep veneers.
  • Straight teeth – Straight teeth require less preparation. If teeth are crooked or protruding, a dentist will recommend trimming them to make your smile look even. Otherwise, teeth that stick out will protrude even farther with veneers on them.
  • A master ceramist – Rather than using a no-prep brand of veneers, advanced cosmetic dentists work with a master ceramist to create a natural-looking smile with customized no-prep veneers.

What If a Dentist Recommends Preparing Your Teeth for Veneers?

If a dentist recommends preparing your teeth for veneers, they should explain why. Skilled cosmetic dentists conservatively prepare teeth a fraction of a millimeter. Studies show that minimal preparation is a best practice for several reasons:

  • It is healthier for your teeth. Confining preparation for the tooth enamel keeps the tooth structure intact. Exposing the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) increases the risk of bacteria leaking behind your veneers and causing infection.
  • It helps with the bonding process—When a dentist prepares your teeth conservatively, the veneers adhere better to them. Attaching veneers to dentin instead of tooth enamel weakens the bonding.
  • It supports the lifespan of your veneers—When porcelain veneers do not fit well, they reduce their lifespan. Porcelain’s strength comes from a secure bond to tooth enamel.

If you want porcelain veneers, consult an advanced cosmetic dentist for healthy, long-lasting results. They will examine your teeth and explain why you might need conservative teeth preparation. Read about Dr. LaSage’s porcelain veneers classification system.

 

Brian LeSage, DDS of Beverly Hills, sponsors this post. Dr. LeSage is an accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry.

Will My Darkening Porcelain Veneers Need Replacing?

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My porcelain veneers are darkening and almost look gray when compared to old pictures. I got the veneers in 2010 and did not expect them to get dark this soon. I have calcium deposits on my teeth beneath the veneers. Can a dentist do anything to refresh the veneers, or will I need new ones? Thanks. Jen A.

Jen,

Dental forceps holding porcelain veneers next to a closeup smileA skilled cosmetic dentist would need to examine your veneers and teeth to determine why they are darkening. We will explain the possibilities.

Why Do Porcelain Veneers Darken?

Porcelain veneers will darken if damaged, or your teeth behind them are turning darker. Dental porcelain is more stain resistant than natural tooth enamel. Consider the factors:

  • Damaged porcelain veneers – A dental hygienist may mistakenly use power polishing equipment on porcelain veneers, which will destroy the glaze on the veneers. Damage glazed causes the veneers to attract stains and darken. Acidulated fluoride treatment or other potent dental chemicals can erode the glaze, causing porcelain veneers to stain and darken.
  • Darkening natural teeth – Tooth decay or other factors can cause natural teeth to darken. As natural teeth darken behind the veneers, the color may show through translucent porcelain veneers. If the bond between your veneers and teeth weakens, bacteria can seep between them, causing tooth decay. However, other factors, including medical conditions can cause teeth to darken.

Schedule a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

We encourage you to schedule consultations with two advanced cosmetic dentists in your area to examine your teeth and veneers. The dentist will explain possible causes, but you may require an exam and X-rays to identify the source of the problem. Your treatment options may include:

  • Lightening your teeth beneath the veneers – Teeth bleaching may lighten your teeth.
  • Polishing the veneers – Diamond polishing instruments and paste may improve the veneers’ appearance.
  • Replacing the veneers – You may need new porcelain veneers.

 

Check cosmetic dentists’ credentials and reviews before scheduling consultations.

 

Beverly Hills accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry Dr. Brian LeSage sponsors this post.

My New Dental Bonding Stained Within Two Weeks!

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How long does it take dental bonding to get stained? Can coffee and tea stain my new dental bonding within two weeks? I just got the bonding and didn’t know I needed to stop drinking coffee and tea. Could toothpaste like Supersmile help, or should I quit drinking coffee and tea altogether? I wish my dentist had told me what to expect. Thanks. Chelsea from NJ

 

Chelsea,

How Soon Does Dental Bonding Stain?

Dental bonding attracts stains over time but not within two weeks. Bonding can last three to ten years depending on its quality maintenance and how well you take care of it. If a dentist lacks proficiency in cosmetic dentistry, you can experience premature staining. We will explain.

Dental Bonding Properties

Dentists apply a composite mixture of plastic resin and inorganic fillers to your teeth. Fillers may be glass, silica, or quartz of different sizes, yielding varying results.

  • Hybrid composites – The larger particle size can produce strong composites but don’t polish as well.
  • Microfill composites – The tiny particles are not as strong as hybrid composites, but a cosmetic dentist can polish them with a luster that looks like natural tooth enamel.
  • Nanofill composites – Some dentists choose nanofills for a combination of high strength and high polish.

What to Expect with Dental Bonding Quality from a Family Dentist

Most family dentists stock dental bonding materials like a hybrid composite that is durable but lacks luster. In contrast, an expert cosmetic dentist stocks a variety of composites and selects them based on each patient’s case, including the condition and location of your teeth. A cosmetic dentist would choose high-luster composite on front teeth to make them look natural. Also, a cosmetic dentist layers shades and translucencies to make the composite look realistic.

Why Would Your Bonding Stain So Soon?

Dental bonding may stain prematurely if your dentist uses a composite that doesn’t polish well. Also, if your dentist doesn’t have the right polishing equipment, your bonding will lack shine.

We recommend asking your dentist to give your bonding more stain resistance with a high polish. If she cannot correct the bonding, look for an advanced, preferably accredited cosmetic dentist who can fix the work. The cosmetic dentist may recommend porcelain veneers if your bonding covers the entire surface of each tooth. You will get long-lasting, stain-resistant results that perfectly match your natural teeth.

Although Supersmile toothpaste prevents and removes stains, it is not as effective when a lack of polish causes stains on dental bonding. Schedule a consultation with an expert cosmetic dentist.

 

Beverly Hills accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry Dr. Brian LeSage sponsors this post. Get more information in our post on why dental bonding may turn yellow.

Dental bonding before and after photos of Beverly Hills Dr. LeSage's patient.

Dental bonding before and after photos of Dr. LeSage’s patient. See his smile gallery for case details.

My New Dental Bonding Stained Within Two Weeks!

“Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful.”
– Thích Nhất Hạnh

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