What is wrong with my new veneers? (Photo)

Question

I'm 44 and I had my 20+ year old veneers replaced and I'm so unhappy with how I look. I wanted white & youthful & it looks like I have dentures because they are so bulky, white with no transparency, and square. The lab first made a set that I thought looked overly ridged and too dark & I feel like we overcorrected. Please provide feedback so I can talk to my dentist. I am so self conscious!

Steven Davidowitz, DDS · Answer

It's important to communicate openly with your dentist about your dissatisfaction with the veneers. Start by clearly expressing your concerns regarding the appearance and how it differs from your expectations. Mention that you were aiming for a white and youthful look but feel the results are too bulky and lack the natural transparency you desired. It's helpful to be specific about what you're unhappy with; for instance, the square shape and the absence of nuanced coloration that can make them appear more like natural teeth. Acknowledge the initial attempt to correct the color but express that the current overly white shade is not satisfactory. Request a detailed discussion on the possible solutions, which may include reshaping or creating a new set of veneers with a more natural translucency and less bulkiness. It's also beneficial to ask about the materials and techniques used, as modern advancements in dental aesthetics might offer options that weren't available when your original veneers were made. Your comfort and confidence in your smile are paramount, and a good dental professional will want to work with you to achieve the best possible outcome. Remember, it's your right to feel content with your dental work, and seeking a resolution is a reasonable and important step.

Jenny Citrin, DMD · Answer

I am so sorry to hear you are feeling so self conscious. I think you hit the nail on the head. The current color lacks natural translucency. The right front tooth is a bit shorter than the ones next to it and both front teeth appear a bit short. Best of luck getting a smile you love!

German Arzate, DDS - Account Suspended · Answer

I’m really sorry to hear about your experience with your new veneers. It sounds quite disheartening, especially when you were looking forward to a fresh, youthful look. Let’s think about how you can discuss this with your dentist to help you feel better about your smile.

Discussing Options for a More Natural Smile

It seems like a few adjustments could be made to improve how your veneers look and feel:

Gum Contouring: It might be helpful to talk about adjusting your gum line, which can sometimes make all the difference in how your veneers sit and look. This process, known as gum contouring, involves reshaping the gum line to better frame your teeth, especially around the premolars. This can make your smile look more balanced and harmonious.

Revisiting Your Makeover Plan: A comprehensive approach to your smile makeover might be the way to go. Mention to your dentist that you feel the veneers are too bulky and lack the natural transparency you were hoping for. It’s important that your veneers not only improve your smile but also feel right.

Considering Different Materials: Talk about the possibility of using zirconia for your veneers. Zirconia is known for its durability and natural appearance, offering a level of translucency similar to natural teeth, which might address your concerns about the veneers looking too white and artificial.

How to Approach Your Dentist

When you meet with your dentist, here’s a gentle yet clear way to communicate your concerns:

Express Your Feelings Honestly: Let them know that you’re feeling self-conscious about the results. It’s okay to share that the comments from others have impacted how you feel about the veneers.

Discuss Specific Changes: Explain what aspects you’re unhappy with – the color, the bulkiness, and the overall appearance. Ask if it’s possible to try zirconia or another material that might look more natural and less like dentures.

Request Visuals: Ask if they can show you simulations or mock-ups of how different adjustments, like gum contouring or new veneers, could look. This can help you visualize the potential changes and ensure that you and your dentist have the same aesthetic goals in mind.

Final Thoughts

You deserve to have a smile that you love and feel confident about. It’s completely valid to seek adjustments when things aren’t quite right, and a good dentist will want to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Taking these steps should help you move towards a solution that makes you happy and restores your confidence in your smile.

What is wrong with my new veneers? (Photo)

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What is wrong with my new veneers? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.