I need some help. I got porcelain veneers about seven months ago. I do like that my smile looks prettier. But, a few months after getting them my gums started hurting and then started bleeding. I just had a dental appointment for my bi-annual cleaning and they told me I’m developing gum disease. I can’t imagine how. They acted like it was my fault, but I’ve always had perfect teeth as far as health goes. I’ve never even had a cavity! I’ve changed nothing about my oral cleaning habits. Could the porcelain veneers be the problem? That’s the only thing I can think of?

Monica

Dear Monica,

If you’ve changed nothing about your oral cleaning habits and the only thing different is the porcelain veneers, then the timing is definitely suspicious. Porcelain veneers themselves won’t cause gum disease or bleeding gums, but poorly placed porcelain veneers can do just that.

Have your dentist check for something known as “bulky margins”. It’s when the veneers aren’t placed flush against your teeth. Essentially, it creates a tiny shelf of sorts between the porcelain veneers and your gums. When that happens, micro pieces of food get trapped there, leading to decay and…gum disease.

I’m sorry your hygienist or dentist tried to blame you. In their defense, they may not even realize they’re the problem. As in every field, there is a wide disparity in differences of skill and expertise. This may be how your dentist always does it and they have no idea they’re the problem.

If Your Dentist Doesn’t Recognize What’s Wrong with Your Porcelain Veneers…

It’s a real possibility that he either won’t recognize or refuses to admit the problem. In that case, you’ll need to get a second opinion. If the second cosmetic dentist says the veneers aren’t properly placed, he can help you get a refund. You’ll also need to get treatment for the gum disease, which they should pay for.

You won’t want to leave the veneers there as is. They’ll need to be replaced. You can either trust your current dentist to re-do the procedure or ask your second opinion dentist to do the honors. It’s totally up to you. Don’t forget to check their smile gallery, though, before you agree. And that they have a beautiful smile guarantee.

This blog is brought to you by Kalamazoo cosmetic dentist Dr. Susan Dennis.