Are caps the best choice for someone who has ground their front teeth and enamel down to yellow? (Photo)

Question

my top front teeth were replaced with caps. my bottom teeth, however, has the enamel worn off to a yellow color. the dentist suggested bonding, but some of your comments suggest they don't last long and stain more. I asked her about caps, like my upper teeth, but she didn't think that was a good idea. she said possibly endup needing a root canal. we didn't even discuss veneers?.... would caps be a better route of the three or bonding or veneers...I need something that will last and stay white.

Anjali Rajpal, DMD · Answer

It looks like you have a history of bruxism or grinding which has caused this, so you would need strong restorations, such as crowns to prevent further breakdown. Your bite will need to be assessed in case it needs to be opened slightly by placing some restorations on your back teeth as well. And ultimately you will need to be in a nightguard.

Mark Edington, DDS · Answer

Caps/ crowns are your best choice; however, you will need full mouth rehabilitation for best results.  Full mouth rehabilitation entails crowning all teeth to increase the vertical dimension you have lost over time from teeth grinding.  Not all dentists are capable of doing this.  You need to seek out a cosmetic dentist comfortable and experienced with this type of dentistry.

Are caps the best choice for someone who has ground their front teeth and enamel down to yellow? (Photo)

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