Covering Tetracycline Stains

Posted by writeradmin

I wanted to get some advice. My sister and I both have tetracycline stains. When we went to lunch together a few months ago, we discussed getting porcelain veneers to fix them. She, of course, rushed out and got them right away because she is always trying to one up me. She a bit annoying like that. I’m a bit bummed because after seeing hers, I’m not sure I want to spend that much money for a mediocre smile.  Her  veneers do not look great. She told me that they have to be made more opaque in order to cover the tetracycline stains. So, here’s my question. I’ve seen dental websites that show beautiful porcelain veneers with tetracycline stains. So, is that not accurate? I want to make sure that I can get the smile I want before I spend all that money.

Avery

Dear Avery,

In this case, your annoying sister saved your tail… or should I say teeth? Something most patients don’t realize is that cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty. Any dentist is allowed to do the procedures regardless of the training they have. It sounds like she went to an average family dentist who does cosmetic dentistry, but hasn’t invested the time in training or developing the skills needed to create a beautiful smile. Porcelain veneers are an advanced procedure on their own that requires post-doctoral training in order to do it right.

If you add tetracycline to the mix, it becomes even more tricky. These are the hardest veneers cases to do. This is because you need them to be opaque enough to cover the stains while still looking natural and translucent. Without the skills and artistry that comes with a lot of post-doctoral training and practice, a dentist will not be able to pull this off. There are countless cosmetic dentistry horror stories from patients who spend a fortune only to end up with a smile worse than the one they were trying to fix.  It sounds like that is what happened to your sister.

The good news (for you, at least) is because it did, you thought to ask some questions. You can have a gorgeous smile, even with tetracycline stains. However, it is important that you see the right dentist to do it. If I were in your position, I would only go to an AACD accredited dentist. Accreditation is different from membership. Dentists who reach accreditation are the best cosmetic dentists in the country. I’d put them in the top 1-3%.  Any one of them could give you the smile of your dreams. One that will make your sister wish she had not tried to one up you.

This blog is brought to you by the best cosmetic dentist in Cincinnati Dr. Fred Peck.