Looking for an affordable dentist to remove my porcelain veneers

How can I find an affordable dentist to do some cosmetic work for me? I had gaps between my front teeth so about 7 years ago, I got porcelain veneers to cover the gaps. I wasn’t sold on them when I first got them, but now they are really bothering me. I want them off and I want to get bonding instead. Kaila

Kaila

It’s unfortunate that you haven’t liked your porcelain veneers from the start. If veneers aren’t placed by an expert cosmetic dentist, some patients dislike the look so much that want them removed.

Can an Affordable Dentist Remove Porcelain Veneers?

Whether or not porcelain veneers can be removed can only be determined when your dentist begins to remove them. If your teeth were not prepared, or shaved, before the veneers were bonded to them, then the veneers can be removed. Your teeth will need to be polished to restore their appearance. If the teeth were shaved, your veneers can only be replaced with new ones. In either case, you want the expertise of a skilled cosmetic dentist. You can speak with the dentist about how the change can be made affordable for you.

What about Direct Bonding?

Small- to medium-sized gaps can be filled with direct bonding. Again, find an experienced cosmetic dentist to either have new veneers replaced or to receive the bonding. Most dentists lack the artistic inclination to give you beautiful cosmetic results.

You’re local to our office, which is in Plano, so you should know that Dr. Lacy is a cosmetic dentist and a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Her experience in porcelain veneers and dental bonding will give you a beautiful smile. She makes dentistry affordable by providing financing and payment plans.

This blog post is sponsored by Plano female cosmetic dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Should I have to pay for sedation dentistry again?

In May I got a new partial denture and I think I’m going to have to go back under sedation to have it fixed. A metal clasp on the left side of my mouth is putting a lot of pressure on the next tooth. I thought that maybe it would loosen with time but it’s quite uncomfortable. Can this clasp be adjusted? If it can be, should I have to pay out of pocket for sedation dentistry? I’ve used all of my insurance allowance for sedation. I just can’t get through a dental appointment without it. If this is an issue my dentist is responsible for, shouldn’t she cover fixing the partial and waive the fee for sedation? – Patrick T.

Patrick,

Although partial dentures are made at a dental lab, most general dentists are able to loosen a clasp on the denture. Partial dentures are usually uncomfortable when you first receive them. The tight clasp might not necessarily be your dentist’s fault. Ask her to explain the reason for the discomfort.

Call your dentist to let her know your concern. If you’ve had the partial denture for longer than a month, she will want to promptly check it. A clasp that is too tight on a tooth for a long period can potentially damage the tooth.

Ask Your Dentist about Sedation

You should speak with your dentist about your need for sedation and ask if she is willing to waive the fee. You can also contact your insurance company, explain the circumstances, and ask for special consideration for any insurance claim that will be submitted for sedation fees.

Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

Dental implants are an option for permanently replacing teeth without the adjustment period or the discomfort of partial dentures.  But dental implants are a more expensive option, and your dentist must determine if you are a candidate for them. They have several advantages over a partial denture:

  • Surgically implanted in your jawbone
  • Stimulate bone growth and prevent shrinkage
  • Look and feel like your natural teeth
  • Don’t need to be secured to an adjacent tooth
  • More cost-effective in the long-term because they are permanent

If your budget permits, you can consider dental implants as an alternative in the future when you need a new partial denture.

We hope you have a successful outcome with adjusting your partial denture and getting assistance with the cost of sedation dentistry.

This blog is sponsored by Plano sedation dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Are Lemons or Oranges Safe for Free Teeth Whitening?

I’ve been looking at some alternatives for free teeth whitening, but I really want it to be natural. My teeth aren’t that bad, but I would love them to be a few shades brighter. One of the things I keep reading about is the use of lemons and oranges. Supposedly, if you use the essential oils or rub the peels on your teeth regularly, they work as a whitening agent. I figure it can’t hurt, so I might as well try it. Any idea if there is science behind this or how it works? Also, is it safe for long-term use or will the acid harm my teeth?

Thanks. TJ

TJ

Although lemons are listed on some natural health sites as a way to whiten your teeth, it’s a really bad idea that can permanently damage your teeth. Let’s explain.

Teeth Can Be Discolored for Many Reasons

Tooth discoloration can be intrinsic or extrinsic. An intrinsic discoloration comes from within the tooth. For example, certain medications can make a tooth change color from the inside out. If a tooth dies, it may become gray. If your enamel becomes thin, perhaps due to age, brushing too hard, acid wear, or taking certain medications, the color of the dentin below may show through. Genetic factors can also have an effect. You may get extrinsic staining from certain habits, including drinking cola, coffee, tea, wine, and juice. Smoking is also a big culprit.

External Stains Don’t Usually Collect on Clean Teeth

Our teeth naturally build up plaque. This is actually a biofilm that forms when bacteria adheres to your teeth. If you’ve ever wadded in a river and felt a slippery rock, it was due to a type of biofilm. The biofilm on your teeth includes the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease, which brushing twice daily is recommended. It is also important to get regular professional cleanings. When your teeth clean and smooth, the coloring in the foods you eat or drinks you consume are less likely to cling to your teeth. When your teeth build up biofilm, stains adhere. Your primary defense against staining is to keep your teeth clean. It might require limiting certain foods or drinks that are bad for your teeth.

What about Citrus Fruits for Teeth Whitening?

Citrus fruits can brighten your teeth because the acid in them kills bacteria. Apple cider vinegar is also routinely touted as a cure for discolored teeth, but it contains acetic acid.

Acids are Bad News for Your Enamel

Eventually, the acid will weaken your tooth enamel wear it down over time. As you lose enamel, the discoloration will likely worsen and your teeth can become sensitive and more prone to decay. Worse yet, once the enamel is gone, it will not regrow. Your dentist can help with some of the issues that occur, but the enamel will be permanently affected.

Use Professional Whitening Systems

Before and after photos for information on free teeth whitening, from Plano TX dentist Miranday Lacy DDS.
Free teeth whitening should be dentist supervised

There are many natural “cures” for stained teeth, but they are often dangerous. Before you try do-it-yourself methods, talk to your dentist about what he or she recommends, or use a professional system that has been tested and is safe.

This blog is sponsored by Dr. Miranda Lacy. Learn more about her Plano free teeth whitening special here.