I have thin teeth enamel. What should I do? (Photo)

Question

My teeth enamel is very thin and translucent at the bottom, with a lot of chips and cracks..It hurts when I eat something hot or cold. I asked my dentist for a composite bonding but he refused and said that he wouldn't touch anything. I'm very annoyed and sometimes even embarrassed to smile. What do you think that I should do? Go to a different dentist or leave it like this? Btw, I'm 21 years old.

Kathy Frazar, DDS, FAGD · Answer

Yes, if present dentist does not want to treat you and you most assuredly want to fix your smile.....get another opinion..Its ok to do this and if other wise you like your present dentist you could stay with him if you choose to even though another dentist enhanced your smile...Google cosmetic dentist in your area and demand to see before and after photos where  said dentist actually performed the work..Get a smile design recommendation from this dentist and good luck with your decision.

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

You should be able to restore your lost enamel with porcelain veneers.  I would find a doctor that has a great deal of experience in smile makeovers and seek out a consultation.  The loss of tooth structure is likely due to grinding and you will need to wear a night guard once you case is completed.  Good luck.

George Tsangaroulis, DDS · Answer

This is a legitimate concern.  If you are concerned with the health and appearance of your smile, you may want to consider seeking another opinion.  If you find a new cosmetic dentist you feel comfortable with, but also like your current dentist you can have the treatment and resume going to your current dentist for your cleanings and checkups.  To address your immediate concern of sensitivity to hot and cold, you can use Sensodyne Toothpaste Rapid Relief, or if you prefer with no Fluoride there is Tom's Rapid Relief Sensitive.  I would have a dentist investigate why your teeth are becoming translucent with chips and cracks.  My guess is that there are 2 variables.  1)  You are grinding your teeth, in which I would recommend a temporary nightguard, and ultimately a permanent custom-made nightguard after you decide to do composite bonding.  2)  Your enamel may be subject to acid erosion, which can be extrinsic or intrinsic - many foods and liquids are highly acidic such as sports drinks, soda, seltzer, colas, and citrus (lemons).  Or there is a possibility you might have stomach indigestion or acid reflux, which results in acid coming up from your stomach affecting the teeth.  This is something you will want to inquire with your primary care physician.  Either way, there is a paste called MI Paste which you apply on your teeth after you brush to help buffer the acid and remineralize your teeth (make sure you don't have a dairy or milk protein allergy).  Do meticulous research on which cosmetic dentist you will choose.  I always recommend one who has been trained at educational facilities such as Spear, Kois, or Dawson Academy to name a few.  And be sure to have a diagnostic waxup prototype prior to treatment so that you can get a good idea of what the outcome will be and what it will entail.  Good luck!

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:Porcelain veneers are the best option due to strength and color stability.  However, due to your age you can also explore bonding as a more inexpensive alternative.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Maria, hello.
I would consider porcelain veneers. They are very thin but strong layer of porcelain over the front and biting side of your thin teeth. This treatment option will not only make you more comfortable enjoying hot and cold food and drinks, but make your smile amazing. Of course you should seek a consultation of experienced dentist before making a final decision.

I have thin teeth enamel. What should I do? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Thin enamel

Answer: Thin enamel

Answer: Porcelain Veneers for thin enamel

Answer: Porcelain Veneers for thin enamel

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Everything you need to know about Dental Bonding

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

I have thin teeth enamel. What should I do? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Thin enamel

Answer: Thin enamel

Answer: Porcelain Veneers for thin enamel

Answer: Porcelain Veneers for thin enamel

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Bonding

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