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.