Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentists

Would Veneers Fix Worn Down Bicuspids? (photo)

I was wondering whether dental veneers would be able to bring back the length and point of my bicupids? I went to a dentist who wasn't very skilled and he shaved the point down way too much, my smile doesn't look half as broad now, and you can see the back part of the tooth when I smile because there's no length on the front side. - Photo included

I am sorry about your experience with your doctor, but do not be disheartened.  Porcelain veneers are the best choice for restoring the length and structure of your teeth. There should be no need for reduction since this is an additive procedure.  Make sure you work with your orthodontist and express your desire to have a wider smile before  the placement of your veneers.

Robert Fields, DDS

Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist

How Durable Are Veneers Compared to Real Teeth?

Are there any precautions I need to take if I were to get veneers? For instance, like not eating hard foods, or hot/cold foods? Are veneers hard to break? If I accidentally bang my tooth with a spoon will a crack easily? Whomever answers, THANKS FOR ANSWERING :)

Porcelain Veneers are as durable as your own teeth as long as you take care of them. Your real teeth can crack if you use them as a tool to open wrappers, lids and other objects. If you hit your real teeth with a spoon or you fall your real teeth can crack or break off.  This applies to veneers as well.  You do not crush ice or bite down on really hard candy with either real teeth or veneers.  You need to take the same precuations with both.  Sensitivity to hot or cold is not affected with application of veneers. You need to make sure your bite is correct before Veneers are placed so there is noextra stress being placed on them.  You need to be aware if you are clench or grind your teeth and, if so, wear a bite guard at night to protect the veneers. When a veneer fails, it is usually due to poor hygiene on the part of the patient.  You need to brush regularly with a soft brush, floss and get regular dental checkups so there is no gum recession where decay may start under the veneer.  Longevity for this procedure is great .Veeners are a good cosmetic fix and will create a beautiful smile!  Good luck!

Robert Fields, DDS

Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist

Should a Root Canal Be Done with the Old Crown in Place??

My wife was recently told she needed a root canal after experiencing some pain under her old crown. The dentist also told her that after the root canal a new crown would be needed to replace the old one. After the root canal was done she went to have the new crown done but was told the existing tooth was to deteriorated for a crown. Is it normal for a root canal to be performed with the old crown in place? Thank you

In most cases when a patient is experiencing pain where there is an "old" crown it is due to the tooth having decay under it.  The most common reason is because it is no longer properly sealed & bacteria is filtering in.  Other times the crown may be properly sealed & it is just reacting to the trauma caused by the actual preparation, which occasionally happens as well.  Every case is different & every dentist treats differently but I usually recommend taking the old crown off to properly evaluate & see if there is enough tooth structure to properly do a root canal, post & crown. Good Luck

Javier Garcia, DDS

Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist