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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Archives for December 2020

My composite filling is still sensitive

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My upper right first molar is sensitive after my dentist placed a small composite filling. He did the filling so that I could get teeth whitening without sensitivity in the small cavity. I’ve been back to my dentist several times. He checked for a crack, adjusted by bite, and said he still thinks my bite is off. He recommends a root canal and a crown if the pain persists. I asked my dentist to redo the filling before doing a root canal. He says that the filling is not the problem because composite forms an excellent bond with the tooth. I’m in my second year with this dentist, but if I need to switch to someone who will replace the filling, I will. Is it likely that I need a root canal? Is there information I can give my dentist to convince him to replace the filling? I just want to keep things moving so I can complete teeth whitening. Thank you. Kamrin

Kamrin,

No, it isn’t likely that you need a root canal. What is more likely is that your dentist does not want to replace the filling. Root canal and a crown will cost nearly $2000, but your dentist must replace it at no cost if the filling is the problem. Unfortunately, it makes us wonder if the dentist is concerned about your oral health.

Correcting a Sensitive Small Composite Filling

Although we do not think you will be able to persuade your dentist, you can mention online research on this website and an article on mynewsmile.com about tooth sensitivity after a filling. There are two ways to correct the situation:

  • Ask your dentist to replace the filling – Your dentist can remove the existing filling and cover the dentin with a glass ionomer base before etching your tooth and applying the new filling. The glass ionomer eliminates sensitivity.
  • Go to an experienced cosmetic dentist – A skilled cosmetic dentist will use the same approach to solve the problem and prove that your dentist was wrong. Afterward, you can request a refund and explain that you will report the issue to the state dental board if you do not receive a refund. You can also publish negative online reviews on Yelp, your dentist’s Google My Business page, and social media.
Photo of teeth whitening trays in a case, for information on DIY teeth whitening from Lowell, MA dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Resolve dental issues before whitening your teeth

Please let us know what happens. We hope it won’t be long before you can start teeth whitening treatment.

Michael Szarek, DMD, of Lowell, MA, sponsors this post.

Tooth sensitivity after a filling – mynewsmile.com

My new porcelain veneers look old after 5 months

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In September, a well-known cosmetic dentist in a community about 50 miles away placed 8 porcelain veneers on my upper front teeth. I love my new smile because it looks natural and better than my teeth. Last week I noticed that my smile doesn’t look as glossy as when I first got the veneers. It looks like my veneers are beginning to have a matte finish. I’ve tried different toothpaste brands, but it’s not working. I’m afraid that I have done something wrong, although I was trying to be diligent about taking care of my veneers. My workload has increased since Covid, and due to the distance of the cosmetic dentist’s office, I’m unable to see her until mid-February. Can my dentist restore the luster of my veneers? Is there something I should do or avoid at home until my appointment? Thank you. Darren from CT

Darren,

You were fortunate to find a cosmetic dentist who gave you a natural-looking smile. Although Dr. Szarek would need to examine your veneers to determine why they are losing their luster, we’ll review two possible reasons.

Why Might New Porcelain Veneers Lose Their Gloss?

New porcelain veneers might lose their gloss or luster due to dental equipment that damages the glaze or because you received composite veneers instead of porcelain.

Damage to porcelain veneers

Although porcelain is denser than tooth enamel, a potent abrasive can damage the glaze and make your veneers look dull. Toothpaste alone would not make your veneers lose their gloss within five months.

  • Power polishing equipment – A hygienist must be trained to care for porcelain veneers. Otherwise, if they use power polishing equipment (e.g., Prophy Jet) on your veneers, it will blast away the glaze. Your veneers will look dull or look like they have a matte finish.
  • Acidulated fluoride – If a hygienist uses fluoride that contains hydrofluoric acid, it will etch the porcelain. Your veneers will look dull and more easily pick up stains.

Type of veneers you received

Although porcelain veneers are limited in how they can be damaged, composite veneers are not as durable. Composite is softer than tooth structure. Abrasive toothpaste, pumice polishing at the dentist, or alcohol-based mouthwash can cause composite veneers to lose their gloss or luster. If you received composite veneers, they will lose their gloss over time. And if you use the abrasive products mentioned, it will accelerate the loss of luster on composite.

Can Your Dentist Restore the Shine on Your Porcelain Veneers?

Yes, an advanced cosmetic dentist can restore the gloss on your porcelain veneers with these steps:

  • Polish your veneers with diamond polishing instruments and polishing paste
  • Finish with ultra-fine diamond polishing paste

Michael Szarek, DMD, an accredited cosmetic dentist in Lowell, MA, sponsors this post. Dr. Szarek’s office is convenient to Dracut, Pelham, Andover, Wilmington, Burlington, and Windham.

Before-and-after porcelain veneers photos from Massachusetts accredited cosmetic dentist Michael Szarek, DMD

Before-and-after porcelain veneers photos from accredited cosmetic dentist Michael Szarek, DMD