Daniel Zabaleta, DDS

A chalky feeling on the biting surface of a veneer could indicate a few possible scenarios:

Incomplete Glazing: It is possible that the veneer was not properly glazed by the dental lab during its fabrication. The glazing process involves applying a layer of translucent material to the veneer's surface, providing it with a smooth and glossy finish. If the glaze is incomplete or uneven, it can result in a rough or chalky texture.

Porcelain Surface Irregularities: Sometimes, the porcelain material itself may have small irregularities or rough spots, even with proper glazing. These irregularities can cause a chalky sensation when touched.

Occlusal Adjustment: The biting surface of the veneer may have been adjusted by the dentist during the installation process to ensure proper bite alignment. If the adjustment was not followed by adequate polishing or smoothing of the surface, it can lead to a rough or chalky texture.

Remember, it's important to address this issue promptly to prevent any further deterioration of the veneer's surface and to ensure your overall satisfaction with your dental restorations.

If you have developed a gap between your two front teeth after having porcelain veneers placed, it is important to determine the cause of this gap before considering treatment options. There could be several reasons for the appearance of a gap, such as changes in the position of the teeth, issues with the veneers themselves, or other factors related to the initial treatment.

In some cases, a gap between the front teeth can be caused by inadequate bonding or an improper fit of the veneers. If this is the case, a visit to a qualified dentist or cosmetic dentist is necessary to evaluate the situation. They will examine the veneers and assess whether they can be adjusted or replaced to correct the gap.

Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, may also be an option to close a gap between the front teeth. An orthodontist will evaluate your teeth, bite, and overall oral health to determine the best approach. They can provide guidance on whether orthodontic treatment is suitable for your specific situation and discuss the potential time frame and expected results.

It's important to consult with a dental professional, whether it is a dentist or orthodontist, to properly diagnose the cause of the gap and discuss your treatment options. They will be able to provide you with personalized advice based on a thorough examination of your teeth and oral health.

Regarding your concern about the waiting time to see an orthodontist in the UK, it is advisable to contact the dental office directly and explain your situation. They may be able to prioritize your appointment based on the nature of your concern. If needed, they could also provide temporary solutions to address the gap until a more comprehensive treatment plan can be implemented.

Remember, it's always best to seek professional advice from a qualified dental professional who can assess your specific case and provide you with appropriate recommendations based on their expertise and experience.

If you have experienced a broken porcelain veneer, it may be worth considering dental crowns for your front teeth, particularly if you are concerned about durability. Your dentist can evaluate the condition of your teeth, discuss your specific needs and expectations, and provide recommendations based on your individual case.

Porcelain veneers and dental crowns are both restorative options that can enhance the appearance and function of your teeth. However, they differ in their preparation, coverage, and the amount of tooth structure they require for placement.

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They are primarily used to address cosmetic concerns such as stained, chipped, or misaligned teeth. Veneers are generally considered to be a conservative treatment option because they require minimal removal of tooth structure. While veneers can be durable, they are not as strong as dental crowns.

Dental crowns, on the other hand, are tooth-shaped caps that completely encase the damaged or treated tooth. They provide more extensive coverage and are often recommended for teeth that have significant structural damage, large fillings, or root canal-treated teeth. Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-ceramic, or zirconia, which are known for their strength and durability. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can provide a long-lasting solution for restoring the function and appearance of your teeth.

In terms of durability and longevity, dental crowns generally offer a more robust option compared to porcelain veneers, especially for teeth involved in biting and chewing. The full coverage provided by crowns distributes the biting forces more evenly, reducing the risk of fractures or breakage. However, it's important to note that dental crowns also require more tooth preparation, which means more natural tooth structure will need to be removed to accommodate the crown.

Pain may occur due to persistent premature contact points, so I recommend to to make an occlusal adjustment.

Phase 1: In this case, I would recommend ortho to improve bite and gaps.

Phase 2: Then for the aesthetics Gum Reshaping to make the teeth bigger. Tabletops to create a better vertical dimension of the smile, improve the oclusion, and make space for the veneers. And porcelain veneers to create the perfect smile. For what you said, you might have Bruxism, to threaten and improve it I would do Botox for Bruxism and a nightguard. Wisdom teeth removal urgently. All this can be done in one week.

It might be possible to treat you directly to phase 2 (without orthodontics), but we would need better pictures and a video.