12 year old veneers lightening near gum line of canine tooth. What can this be? (photo)

Question

I have had veneers on my top front 6 teeth for about 12 years. The right canine has started lightening near the gum line. There is no difference in the "feel" of the veneer there. I've heard of veneers "darkening" because of damage to the tooth below or a leak, but lightening? what could this be? I only noticed this recently. In the picture look at the oval shaped whiter area at the top of the tooth. Thanks in advance!

Juan (Sebastian) Munoz, DDS · Answer

Thanks for the photo, it is helpful. It is possible there is breakdown in the veneer bonding attributing to the color change. Or maybe be time for a new veneer. This is my personal opinion and not a diagnosis.

Erdem Ozdemir, DDS, PhD · Answer

There seems no visible lightening in the picture, but I recommend you to see a dentist if it bothers you. It needs to be checked if there is a gap between the shaved tooth and the crown by having an x-ray if possible.

12 year old veneers lightening near gum line of canine tooth. What can this be? (photo)

Answers (2)