Can a New Dentist Match an Existing Veneer?

Question

I am looking to switch dentists and do not feel comfortable asking to transfer my chart. Would a new dentist be able to match my veneers in the unfortunate case that one of them would crack? I know there are a lot of elements that go into creating the veneer (color, translucency, texture etc). However, as much as I love my veneers I'm losing faith in my current dental practice.

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

Without question a porcelain veneer can be matched to your existing restorations by a new dentist.  This is not an easy task, but I always enjoy the challenge. By using great digital photography to capture your existing veneers and a fantastic lab technician the shade can be matched.  There are times when the restoration may need to go back to the lab a second time to get the perfect color match, but in the end it will be exactly what we want.  The dentist MUST use an elite ceramic lab technician to pull this off.  We have a wonderful relationship with our lab and I consider him one of the best in the business. Hope this helps.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

If the question is "CAN" it be done, then yes.  However, it is often very challenging and may take extra effort, time and fee.  While knowing what kind of material was used (brand of porcelain), is very helpful, it is not vital.  You likely don't need to get your old chart from the old office, but the new office will need current xrays.  You may need to pay for those all over again.

Gerry Curatola, DDS · Answer

While your concern is understandable and wanting to change dentists is your prerogative, achieving an exact match of an existing veneer without the previous information may be difficult, especially if there was a custom blend of porcelain shades when the previous veneers were made. Other important information is the shade/type of luting composite (adhering the veneer to the tooth), along with the stump (prep) shade of the underlying tooth. This information should be made available to you by the previous dentist should/when the need arises to change an existing veneer,and my advice would be to get it. It just may make your life, along with that of the the dentist's and dental technician's, just a little bit easier. If not, a process of "trial and error" may be unavoidable when a new veneer may have to be fabricated. You should also be aware that with time the color of your veneers may appear to change anyway as both the luting composite and underlying tooth color can darken or yellow.

Ronald Konig DDS · Answer

Yes, porcelain veneers can be matched.  It is however,  a challenging and skilled project.  Many times it requires custom shading which is to paint the additional porcelain on in the mouth and then refire the porcelain in the furnace.  Whereas it is not most dentists favorite thing to do it is a necessity in practice.  I would think most dentists would charge more for a single tooth in the front of the mouth and it should be worth it.  You could also expect that a few extra visits may be necessary.  Overall, it should not be a problem and there is even a chance that the dentist who made the original veneers may also need to do the same.

Wendy S. Spektor, DDS · Answer

I think that matching veneers is a talent that needs a dentist who is good with color and a great lab.  They can be new or experienced.  Some dentists like this challenge more than others - so ask.  Changing dentists is always an adjustment but if you have lost confidence, ask the new dental office to have your records transfered and go for it!  I am always sad when my patients leave but understand that I can not please everyone-

Can a New Dentist Match an Existing Veneer?

Answers (10)

Answer: Matching Porcelain Veneers

Answer: Matching Porcelain Veneers

Answer: Veneers Can Be Matched

Answer: Veneers Can Be Matched

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

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

Can a New Dentist Match an Existing Veneer?

Answers (10)

Answer: Matching Porcelain Veneers

Answer: Matching Porcelain Veneers

Answer: Veneers Can Be Matched

Answer: Veneers Can Be Matched

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

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