Although I’ve had the same dentist since 2002, after getting porcelain veneers from him, I found out the hard way that he knows nothing about cosmetic dentistry. I guess I chose him because I trusted the other work he has done for me even though it wasn’t cosmetic. The reason I regret my decision is the way the veneers look. Although he took his time, the veneers are unnaturally square and unnaturally white. They actually look like squares. There is no way I can hide the fact that I don’t like the veneers. I don’t want to hurt my dentist’s feelings, but there is no way I can continue like this. I want the veneers off and just go back to my natural teeth, but I don’t trust my dentist to do it. I’m also concerned about going back to him for my regular checkup only for him to find out that I took all of his hard work off my teeth. What’s the best way for me to handle this? Mareesa

Mareesa – Many patients who received porcelain veneers from a dentist who isn’t highly trained in cosmetic dentistry express similar disappointment.

Can Porcelain Veneers Be Removed?

• Unfortunately, porcelain veneers can’t be removed for you to go back to your natural teeth again. But they can be removed and replaced with new porcelain veneers.
• The color, shape, and translucence of porcelain veneers cannot be changed.
• A skilled cosmetic dentist ensures you’re completely satisfied with temporary veneers before they are made. You are given opportunity to wear temporary veneers for a week or two to get used to them, to let friends and family see how your new smile looks, and to decide if you love your temporary veneers or if you want any changes made.

Your description of what happened with your veneers shows that your dentist lacks sufficient skill, training, and artistry to create a beautiful smile. Even if you asked him to give you new porcelain veneers, you probably wouldn’t like the results.

We recommend that you find at least two accredited cosmetic dentists and schedule consultations with them. Each dentist will take a quick look at your veneers and let you know what he or she can do to provide you with veneers that you will love.

If you speak with your dentist, he might be able to give you at least a partial refund—if not a full refund. You can choose to use the money returned to you to get the smile you want.

This post is sponsored by Lowell, MA dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.