When I talked to my dentist about a smile makeover he told me porcelain veneers were the way to go because they can be customized to what I want. We discussed in depth the color and shape I wanted. I definitely wanted my teeth slightly longer because I feel like the boxiness my teeth have developed age me. I also wanted them whiter. But, what ended up with looks chalky and, though they are slightly longer, they still look boxy. It’s just not at all what I was expecting. I told my dentist I wasn’t thrilled and he said it was some of his best work. He also said most patients aren’t thrilled at first because it’s new, but after they have it for a few days they love it. Well, it’s been a few days and I’m still not thrilled. Is there anything I can do about this?
Olivia B.
Dear Olivia,
First, I want to assure you that porcelain veneers can definitely give you a gorgeous, customized smile. However, that is all contingent on the skill of the cosmetic dentist. I’ll be honest with you. I don’t think your dentist has much expertise with cosmetic dentistry just based on his response to your disappointment. A true cosmetic dentist would not be satisfied if their patient wasn’t. Anything short of thrilled isn’t good enough.
The fact that his patients are always disappointed also says something about his skill. In fact, when you get a true smile makeover, you’d likely be so excited with the results that you couldn’t wait to smile and show off your new smile.
Unfortunately, once they’re bonded on the only way to change them is to get new ones. It doesn’t sound like you’re going to be happy with this smile. I’d ask for a refund and then look for a more experienced and artistic cosmetic dentist. Feel free to ask to see before and after images of cases they’ve done. If you’re not thrilled with the images they showed you (which would logically be some of their best work) move on to a different dentist.
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