Tag Archives: getting a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist

Can Porcelain Veneers Cause Gum Disease?

I recently received a set of porcelain veneers. Not very long after my gums started bleeding periodically when I brush. At my last dental check-up, the hygienist told me I’m starting to develop gum disease. I don’t understand what is going on. I’ve never had problems with either cavities or my gums and am very diligent with my oral health care. Is it possible that the porcelain veneers caused my problem? Have you heard of porcelain veneers causing gum disease?

Brenda M.

Dear Brenda,

Porcelain Veneer being placed on a tooth

What’s going on with your gums certainly isn’t normal. If you haven’t changed any habits and the problem started shortly after the placement of your porcelain veneers, it makes sense that you suspect them. However, porcelain veneers on their own will not cause gum disease. Poorly placed porcelain veneers, on the other hand, can cause loads of trouble.

Is it possible your regular family dentist was the one who placed your porcelain veneers? Because the problem started after you received your porcelain veneers, there is likely a connection. Sometimes, an inexperienced cosmetic dentist has trouble getting the veneers flush against the gums. That creates a ridge where bacteria can get caught and will lead to things like gum disease and decay. This could sabotage your oral health. Your hygienist may not recognize it as a problem because that’s how she is used to seeing it in their office.

Dealing with Porcelain Veneers with Margin Issues</h2

There are a few ways this can be dealt with:

  • Water Pick: If you’re otherwise fine with your porcelain veneers and love the overall smile makeover, you may want to invest in a water pick and see if makes a positive difference. It may just give you the extra kick you need to keep bacteria out from the ridge.
  • Have Your Dentist Check the Margins: If your dentist double checks whether the margins are properly fit and admits they’re not, he should fix them at no cost to you.
  • Second Opinion: Some dentists have a hard time admitting if they’d made a mistake. If you want to be certain you can get a second opinion from another dentist to find out exactly.

A word of advice about getting a second opinion. Make sure you don’t tell them what dentist did your work. Then you’re putting the dentist in the position of saying something against someone he may be close friends with. Instead, just tell him to look at the work and tell you what he thinks. Nothing else.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Malone.