dental bonding Archives - Coleman Dental

Can dental bonding be whitened?

May 9, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I have had dental bonding on my front two teeth for over 15 years. I suppose the bonding should be redone, but I just don’t have the money for it at the moment. I think the original cosmetic dentist told me that the bonding itself will not change color if it is bleached. But I was wondering if whitening it will at least return it to the original color. Specifically, I was wondering if white strips would do it?

– Sam in Missouri

Sam,

Dental bonding can not be whitened. It will not return to it’s original color. In fact, there is a good possibility that attempting to bleach it or use white strips on it, will make it look worse than it is now. This is because the bleaching agents will actually whiten the teeth underneath the bonding, but will have no affect on the bonding. So it will give the affect that the bonding is actually darker than it is now.

The best bet is to have it replaced. Although, it sounds like you are looking for cost effective solutions. Polishing may spruce it up a it. This is largely dependent on whether the discoloration and staining is from external staining and not the internal material. If this is indeed the case, an experienced cosmetic dentist may be able to improve the appearance of the bonding for the short term.

Please don’t try teeth whitening strips or any other bleaching agents. You won’t be happy with the result!

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

What is the best to fix my white spots – Zoom, porcelain veneers or something else?

May 9, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I have had white spots on my teeth my entire life. My mom told me that they developed on my teeth when I was very young. I ended up with braces as a teen and I have a feeling that didn’t help my situation. The white spots on my front teeth are very noticeable. I’ve been with the same family dentist for as long as I can remember. He told me that my teeth are healthy. He said that my teeth are in good condition and I’m only in my twenties. So, I shouldn’t try to fix something that doesn’t need to be fixed. But, I hate my white spots. I find myself being self conscious. So, I’ve been researching different options and I keep coming back to teeth whitening with something like Zoom or maybe porcelain veneers. Would Crest Whitestrips be strong enough for something like this? I’m afraid Zoom would actually make the white spots whiter. Does that make sense? Maybe porcelain veneers would be the best fit. I’d love to hear your feedback?

– Carrie in New York

Carrie,

If it’s not broken, don’t fix it, is very typical of general dentists. His response is quite telling in his experience and understanding of cosmetic dentistry. He is being honest and likely has your best interest in mind. But, it truly doesn’t sounds like he is a cosmetic dentist. And that’s okay. Stick with him for your regular routine care. But, you need to find an excellent cosmetic dentist in your area to address the white spots. There is a fundamental different between general dentists and cosmetic dentists. A cosmetic dentist is like an artist. They believe that everybody deserves a beautiful smile. An experienced cosmetic dentist will also have extensive training beyond dental school. So, it sounds like it’s time to seek another opinion. A general dentist is trained to fix things and has a more functional mindset.

As far as the correct treatment option, teeth whitening treatments like Zoom whitening, will not work for you. Your instincts are right. Whitening the spots, may make them worse. Steer clear of any dentist that recommends whitening treatments.

An expert cosmetic dentist will be able to give you specific treatment options. If the spots aren’t too large, you may be a dental bonding candidate. Or, porcelain veneers may be the better option for you. It’s difficult to give recommendations without having seen your case in person. So, you need to find a reputable cosmetic dentist and ask to see examples of cases similar to yours. It is also possible to have the teeth whitened to brighten the majority of your smile. Then, you could get the spots fixed and the cosmetic dentistry could be made to blend in perfectly with the surrounding teeth.

Thank you for your question. Hopefully, this gives you some options to consider.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

The dentist put stain on my Lumineers.

May 8, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I just spent over $13K on Lumineers. The dentist that did them ordered stain because it was supposed to help them look more natural. I really was hoping for a bright, white look. But what he ended up doing is ugly. Then, when I complained about it he decided to drill off the top portion of them so they could be whitened. Now they look dull and the shape isn’t right. Was drilling the correct thing to do? I cannot believe I feel this way after spending so much money. Do you have any advice?

– Denise in Missouri

Denise,

Well, unfortunately it sounds like the damage is done at this point. There isn’t that much that can be done, unless their appearance is bad enough. The only way you may be able to recoup some of the cost is to see a new dentist that sides with you and pressures the first dentist into some sort of refund so you can have the work re-done.

Thank you for sharing your story about your Lumineers mishap though. Hopefully, it will help someone else be a little more careful in selecting a dentist for cosmetic dentistry. What most people fail to realize is that fewer than one or two percent of dentists have the artistic ability and passion to create a beautiful smile with porcelain veneers. Most expert cosmetic dentists won’t even place Lumineers. They come with strict trademark regulations that they be done in the Lumineers lab and they are not very natural-looking because they tend to look long and bulky.

The stain you described is a technique that was taught in dental school as a way to make teeth appear more natural-looking. So it is likely that the dentist was trying to follow this recommendation. The thing is, it doesn’t look natural in many cases. There are so many factors involved in creating beautiful cosmetic dentistry that far too few truly understand, as well as an expert-level understanding of the bonding techniques and methods used to place them.

Sadly, you will likely want to have these veneers redone in the future. This next time around, ask to see cases similar to yours, check their credentials, and go with someone that offers a beautiful smile guarantee. Most excellent cosmetic dentists will offer some type of assurance that if you don’t love the way the veneers look before they are permanently bonded, they will be sent back to the lab.

Thank you for your question and best of luck!

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

Can new Lumineers be put over top of old ones?

May 8, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I have Lumineers and have for years. They don’t look that great anymore. Have you ever heard of placing new Lumineers over old ones to freshen up a smile? I understand teeth whitening won’t work on Lumineers. So, I was wondering if adding a new layer of Lumineers would improve how they look? When I originally had them done, my dentist knew I wanted them whiter but he was told that wasn’t an option. He’s a nice guy and I’ve been happy with him for most of my treatment, but I don’t think I need to keep my “dingy” teeth when I’m sure there is a way they can be better? Do you have any insight?

-Lisa in Michigan

Lisa,

Technically, it is possible to place new Lumineers over old Lumineers. But that’s just silly.

Just for clarification and for any other web viewers reading this response, it is important to realize the Lumineers are just another brand of porcelain veneers. Lumineers are popular, mainly because of the huge advertising campaign behind them. At one time, several years ago, the Lumineers brand was promoting the option to place Lumineers on top of crowns. So, it is possible you saw something about that. But, the truth is that most patients didn’t like them. There was no shortage of reader complaints and the company no longer promotes this approach. Placing new Lumineers over old ones is similar to the concept of covering crowns with them.

If a dentist was to place new porcelain veneers (Lumineers) over old ones, he or she would essentially be doing them over anyway. For example, the old veneers would require preparation and you would get a much better result if they were simply redone. You also would run the risk of the final product being too thick and not looking natural.

This idea of placing new ones on top of the old ones, really wouldn’t have the staying power of having the smile makeover redone either. When porcelain is bonded onto porcelain, the bond isn’t as strong or successful as if the tooth bonding was done to a natural tooth. Think about this possibility as well, what happens when the veneer underneath has issues? Again, it is in your best interest to have them redone. Otherwise you run the risk of them looking funny and they may stain more easily along the margin.

Also, going back to your original question about your dentist claiming that a whiter color wasn’t available, that is just not right. It sounds like your dentist may be a great general or family dentist. But cosmetic dentistry isn’t his thing. In order to do beautiful cosmetic dentistry, a dentist must undergo extensive training beyond dental school. It also takes a passion for aesthetics and an artistic eye to deliver truly beautiful results. You may not realize that less than two percent of dentists will create a stunning smile makeover. So, maybe it’s time to consult with an expert cosmetic dentist that can give you the smile you have always wanted.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

Is mouthwash safe for porcelain veneers?

May 7, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I have used mouthwash regularly as part of my oral hygiene routine forever. But I just invested so much into my new porcelain veneers, I want to makes sure I’m not doing anything to harm them. Is mouthwash safe on cosmetic dentistry like porcelain veneers?

-Callie in Florida

Callie,

Most cosmetic dentists will not recommend mouthwash be used after any kind of cosmetic dentistry.

To keep your porcelain veneers looking your best, it is important to keep your teeth clean. You don’t need mouthwash to do that. Regular brushing and flossing, and keeping up with regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups will keep them looking beautiful. You want to avoid any kind of abrasive toothpastes or cleaning agents. Also, when you are into the dentist for a cleaning, abrasive cleaning methods should not be used by the hygienist. For example, using some polishing equipment (pumice-type) or abrasive agents during the appointment. Most dental hygienists know this. But it’s never a bad idea to remind them.

Mouthwash doesn’t do anything to clean your teeth. Of course, it doesn’t hinder your oral health. But with porcelain veneers you want to avoid any products that have any kind of alcohol in them. Over time, the alcohol in some dental products will soften the dental bonding composite material that was used to permanently bond the veneers to your teeth. A leading product like Listerine contains over 20% alcohol.

crest-alcohol-free-mouthwash-cosmetic-dentistry

Now, if you can’t cut out mouthwash from your daily routine, look for an alcohol-free mouthwash. Breath Rx is a brand that was created by a cosmetic dentist and it is alcohol-free. Or Crest Pro Health pictured here, is also an alcohol-free brand.

Thank you for your question. If you maintain a regular oral hygiene regimen and keep up with your preventive maintenance appointments at the dentist, your smile will be beautiful for many years to come.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

My porcelain veneers are messing up my speech.

May 5, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I had a pretty significant smile makeover, which included 10 porcelain veneers. I also had two crowns done at the same time. After the permanent veneers were placed, I noticed that I am having some difficulty speaking. My tongue isn’t happy. It just doesn’t feel comfortable. The best way to describe it is that it feels like my tongue is too big and it kind of lays on the back of the bottom of my front teeth. Does that make sense? When I went in, my dentist seemed stumped. He can’t figure it out. Does it have something to do with the crowns on the back molars? Please tell me you have some advice. I feel silly!

-Jana in Florida

Jana,

Sorry to hear that you are having some issues with your porcelain veneers. Unfortunately, it is always difficult to give specific recommendations without having seen your case in person. That said, here is some information regarding smile makeovers and speech patterns that you may find helpful.

When porcelain veneers are placed properly, they shouldn’t be affecting your tongue or your speech. Porcelain veneers are tiny shells of porcelain veneers that are placed on the front surfaces of your teeth. So, the correct placement of porcelain veneers shouldn’t bother your tongue. The crowns you mentioned cover the entire tooth and not just the surface. So, if your smile makeover consisted of all crowns, there is a possibility that your speech could be impacted. But, you mentioned that you only had two crowns done. That said, this may be the culprit or a combination of them both.

Another thing that you may not realize is that any dentist can claim to be a cosmetic dentist without any additional cosmetic dentistry training. This means the dentist may not actually have the ability or advanced training and experience to deliver results. The thickness of the inside surface of the crowns, may alter the pronunciation of certain letter sounds. An excellent cosmetic dentist will be trained in how to place crowns in a way that they will not agitate or affect the tongue.

The length of the front teeth and back teeth may also affect certain letter pronunciation. So, the main question to figure out is which of these precise measurements is affecting your tongue and speech patterns. Most expert cosmetic dentists will test the placement of the provisional veneers or porcelain crowns prior to placing them permanently. Then, they can be adjusted at that stage before they are permanently bonded into place.

As you very well know, there is something wrong here and it sounds like it occurred during the placement of permanent restorations. It is possible your dentist didn’t actually send the impressions into the dental laboratory. Usually that is the best course of action. But it is possible your dentist chose to use photographs instead of the impressions. Or it is of course possible that the ceramist has messed up or misunderstood the specifications.

Sometimes it takes awhile to adjust to a smile makeover. But if you are still having problems after a couple months, you should adamantly request that they be corrected or even redone. It is possible that you may be better served by another cosmetic dentist. Your original dentist should make every effort to make this right. But, if you are met with resistance for whatever reason, it may be in your best interest to see a new cosmetic dentist. Sometimes, the new cosmetic dentist will be able to attest to the issues you’re having and help you pursue getting a refund at some level. Good luck and thank you for sharing your story. Hopefully, it helps others realize that not every dentist can do beautiful, functional cosmetic dentistry.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

Is there anything I can do to avoid my porcelain veneers from coming off occasionally?

May 5, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I just paid a lot of money to have eight porcelain veneers placed. I was really surprised to hear from the dentist that I should expect them to come off every couple months. He told me to avoid really crunchy foods, but is there anything I can do to help them last longer? It sounds like a pain to have to go back in to have them redone so frequently.

-Tamara in Oklahaoma

What?! That is absurd. Cosmetic dentistry is not regulated as a specialty area within dentistry. This means that any dentist can say they do porcelain veneers or other cosmetic dentistry services, like dental bonding, without any additional training beyond dental school. Porcelain veneers should not come off regularly. That is a very poor standard of care and is unacceptable. If the veneers come off before a year of being placed, the dentist should be liable for that. You should have every right to request a refund, as well. When porcelain veneers are placed correctly by an expert cosmetic dentist that has had the appropriate training, they should last more like ten years.

Also, you shouldn’t have any dietary restrictions. Apples, chips, and other crunchy foods should be eaten without a second thought when porcelain veneers are done correctly. Now, don’t go around using your teeth for tools and opening cans or packages. But you should be able to eat normally. If the dental bonding was done correctly, they should not fall off.

Now, if you have a night grinding problem or take part in contact sports, a night guard and mouthpiece should be worn. But it is completely inaccurate and not within the normal standard of care to state that the veneers would come off on occasion.

If indeed you encounter this happening, you should be able to request a refund. Then, it will be time to find a reputable cosmetic dentist in your area and move on.

Thank you for your question. This kind of misinformation is ridiculous.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

My daughter is cheap. Will dental bonding work instead of porcelain veneers?

May 4, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

My daughter is in her forties and she has what they call “peg” teeth. So, she’s looking into getting porcelain veneers on her canine teeth. But, the dentist is trying to talk her into getting porcelain veneers done on all four of her front teeth. I was wondering if dental bonding will work? It seems to be much less expensive. She simply cannot afford porcelain veneers. She had dental bonding done years ago and it doesn’t look good. I’m wondering if we could get by with some dental bonding and a couple porcelain veneers, while she’s saving up for all four veneers? Or can she just get dental bonding done on all four front teeth instead? Please tell me you have some insight.

-Shannon in Texas

The most important question that needs to be asked – is this a cosmetic dentist that is making these recommendations? You may not realize it, but only a very few cosmetic dentists can do beautiful cosmetic dentistry. General dentists have a more functional mindset about fixing a problem. A cosmetic dentist is an artist. They are passionate about creating beauty. Only two percent of dentists have the ability and expertise to provide truly stunning results. So, if you’re seeing a general dentist, it’s time to move on and seek a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist. Preferably, one that can show you specific before and after examples of cases similar to your daughter’s issues.

Dental bonding takes a highly skilled hand and can take just as long as porcelain veneers to do. So, when you are saying it’s much cheaper, you need to consider the source. If it is drastically cheaper, it may not be the quality you are expecting. Proceed with caution.

Your daughter may not have a handle on the explanation given by the dentist either, because typically “peg teeth” refer to the lateral incisors. This would make sense as to why the dentist is recommended your daughter get four veneers (two lateral incisors and two central incisors). That said, this may speak volumes. An expert cosmetic dentist wouldn’t need to do all four porcelain veneers, if they could blend in the two teeth that need to be done to the surrounding teeth. This may be an indicator that the dentist doesn’t have the confidence in his or her work. Again, it may be worth your while to get a second opinion by an expert.

It is difficult to give specific recommendation without having seen your daughter’s case. So, these are all assumptions and may not be the correct. But an expert cosmetic dentist should be able to do two porcelain veneers (not all four) if they are skilled at cosmetic dentistry.

Just keep in mind that dental bonding can be made to look beautiful, if it’s done by an excellent cosmetic dentist. But it will need to be replaced and redone over the years.

Thank you for your questions.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

I’m living a porcelain veneers horror story!

May 3, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I’m so sad. My porcelain veneers look terrible. I have been seeing the same dentist since I was five years old. I love going to see him. When I was in for a regular checkup, I mentioned that I had a really big project at work. It was an opportunity for me to expand my role at and I would be highly visible. He offered to do porcelain veneers to improve my smile. And I didn’t think twice about it. I have always trusted him. I have only ever had positive experiences at the dentist.

So, he did the work. Well, I guess that was a big mistake. I am so unhappy with the results. They are oddly shaped for one. The color isn’t right. I don’t know how to explain it. But, they look fake. The best way to explain it is that it looks like I have Chiclets glued to the front of my teeth.

But, the thing that is most frustrating is that I can’t talk normally. My tongue keeps getting stuck on them and I sound funny. This is a nightmare. I’m not only paranoid about only how they look, but I’m embarrassed that I sound funny. What do I do? I don’t want to damage our relationship. But, I’m mortified. I have to get them fixed or taken off.

-Elizabeth in Louisiana

Elizabeth,

Oh no! This is an unfortunate situation. The bad news is that the porcelain veneers cannot be removed. When porcelain veneers are placed, a tiny bit of the enamel is removed so that they can be permanently bonded in place. When porcelain veneers are don’t correctly, the tooth preparation steps ensures they look completely seamless and natural-looking. But, it also means that they cannot be removed. Your smile won’t look like it used to. Also, your teeth would be more susceptible to decay.

You have learned the hard way. There is a fundamental difference between cosmetic dentists and general dentists. It sounds like your general dentist is a wonderful dentist, seeing that you’ve been going to him since you were a child. But, he simply may not have the training and experience to do beautiful porcelain veneers.

To be an excellent cosmetic dentist requires extensive training beyond dental school. A cosmetic dentist is passionate about creating beauty, in the same way an artist is obsessed with creating art. Think of your smile like a canvas. That is how a true cosmetic dentist is motivated. They want nothing more than for you to fall in love with your new smile.

I know you don’t want to hear this. But, you probably need to see a different dentist to get this straightened out. One that is highly experienced in cosmetic dentistry. If it was only a matter of fixing the speech issue, your dentist may be able to make some adjustments. But, it sounds like there are many things wrong with the smile design. So, the porcelain veneers need to be replaced.

You need to talk to your dentist. He may end up offering to redo them for you. But, it is not in your best interest. He probably had the best intentions. He’s just not equipped to do the highly-skilled, aesthetic work that is needed. You may be able to see if he will refund you or give you some money back, so you can go elsewhere to get the smile you deserve.

You shouldn’t feel bad. Honestly, it’s probably him who will feel really bad. You can continue seeing him for your routine care. But, for the porcelain veneers and any future cosmetic dentistry, be sure you find a reputable cosmetic dentist.

Look for one that has many before and after photographs to share with you. Ask about their training, what other services they provide and how they will improve your case. Good luck to you!

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.

Is it possible to lighten Lumineers?

May 2, 2019 by Dr. Scott Coleman

I had to save up quite a bit to cover the cost of the Lumineers I had done a couple years ago. My dentist kept referring to them as dental bonding or no-prep veneers. He did it all in on appointment. I am sadly disappointed, as they are starting to discolor already, after how much I spent on them. Do you know if it’s possible to lighten Lumineers?

-Jen in Nevada

Jen,

It is unfortunate that you are unhappy with your Lumineers. But dental bonding and Lumineers are two different types of cosmetic dentistry treatment. Porcelain veneers usually don’t discolor in such a short time and Lumineers are a brand of ultra-thin porcelain veneers. It is possible that you had dental bonding done and not Lumineers. When tooth bonding is done, it can discolor in this time frame. It requires going in for touch-ups and having it redone.

If indeed you had dental bonding done, which is sounds like you did, it may be time to consider porcelain veneers. When veneers are done properly by an expert cosmetic dentist, they can last for 15-20, sometimes even 30 years with regular maintenance. Now, if you did actually have Lumineers done in the first place, they cannot be lightened. Teeth whitening is only effective on natural teeth. Unfortunately it sounds like any option you choose to update the cosmetic dentistry work will require having it redone.

Don’t be bashful in addressing payment plans or possibly considering financing, if you are concerned about the cost of having the cosmetic dentistry redone.

This post is sponsored by Houston cosmetic dentist Coleman Dental.