Posted by writeradmin
I had porcelain veneers done several years ago by another dentist, who has since retired. The veneers improved my smile quite a bit because I had tetracycline stains. Yesterday, one of the veneers cracked and fell off. I saved the pieces and went in to see the new dentist right away. Their office glued it on and said they can schedule an appointment in a couple of weeks to fit me for a temporary crown. This glued on porcelain veneer does not look or feel good. When I protested they said a cosmetic problem is not a dental emergency. Do I really need to wait this long? Also, is there any way to get another veneer instead of a dental crown? The tooth is healthy.
Joyce
Dear Joyce,
I’m glad you wrote. It sounds like the new dentist who took over is not as interested in cosmetic work as your original dentist. I don’t think he is going to be what you need to get this taken care of. While it is not technically a dental emergency, true cosmetic dentists understand there are aesthetic emergencies and would not expect you to wait two weeks.
Additionally, I don’t like the fact that they are planning a dental crown instead of just replacing the porcelain veneer. A good cosmetic dentist could easily replace the original veneer and make it match perfectly.
When a dentist suggests a crown over a veneer when nothing is wrong with the tooth, it is almost always an indication that they are not a skilled cosmetic dentists. They are suggesting the crown because they have training in how to place them. It is one of the first things dentists learn in dental school. However, being able to make a dental crown and being able to do it beautifully are two different things.
I recommend you find a different dentist to do this. There is bound to be a skilled cosmetic dentist in your area who understands an aesthetic emergency and will do a beautiful job for you.
This blog is brought to you by Lafayette, LA Dentist Dr. John Theriot.