Monthly Archives: September 2014

Porcelain Veneers

My veneers don’t look good

My dentist said my veneers would cover my tetracycline  stains. It does, but my veneers look really fake. Is there no way to get them to look natural?

Samantha- Michigan

Samantha,

Tetracycline stains are some of the hardest cosmetic dental challenges. If you’re not careful, the stains will show through the porcelain veneers, but if you overcompensate, then you could get them too opaque.

That doesn’t mean it is impossible, but you’re going to need a highly skilled dentist, like among the top 1% of the nation. I’d look for someone who is accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). There is a big difference between being a member of the AACD and being accredited. Make sure you get the latter. You’re spending a small fortune on your veneers, you’ll want to make sure they’re the best they can. It would be worth it to drive to the next city of you had to.

This blog is brought to you bySalem, MA Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Randall Burba

Dentures

Dentures won’t stay in

I have a problem and I’m hoping you have a solution. I have had dentures for quite a few years. I don’t really go to the dentist anymore. Lately, my dentures just won’t stay in.  They’re falling out constantly. I’ve used every denture adhesive known to man and nothing is effective. Thoughts?

Lisa R. W. – LIttle Rock, AR

LIsa,

I have an idea of what is going on and you won’t like it. Hopefully, your original dentist who provided you with the dentures warned you of the dangers with long-term denture usage. Once your teeth are removed, you body begins to reabsorb the mineral in your jawbone, because they are no longer necessary.

After 10-20 years, you no longer have enough of a jawbone left to support your dentures.  This is a dangerous situation to be in because it makes it hard for you to eat.

The only thing you can really do is to get bone grafting done to build back up your jawbone. Just be aware that if you stick with dentures after that, the same thing will eventually happen. Getting dental implants will protect you from this issue, but they are more expensive than dentures.

This blog is brought to you by Salem, MA Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Randall Burba.