Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 4/10/2009

Question
QUESTION: Both upper front teeth are cracked-tip to gum, front and back in the middle, probably from clenching at night.  Veneers have been recommended, but have to save up to afford $2,700 price.  Is there something temporary I can have done that will prevent widening or infection or breakage of tooth till I can save for veneers & is that the best permanent treatment?

ANSWER: Dear Jan,

If there is sufficient enamel still present on the two broken teeth, it may be possible for your dentist to make bonded resin fillings, which will provide at least temporary service.

Keep in mind that a clenching habit will reduce the life span of any restoration, and it is uncertain just how long a temporary restoration will survive under these harsh conditions. It is also my experience that porcelain veneers do NOT fare well in the mouths of patients with clenching or grinding habits-- porcelain is porcelain, with all the fragility that implies. There is no reason to expect porcelain veneers to hold up any better than your natural teeth. Full crowns, preferably with cast metal back surfaces, would most likely be a better and more durable choice when you are financially able to proceed with more definitive treatment.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks!  There is sufficient enamel--only noticed cracks when I was taking herbal extracts that darkened teeth & caused them to be visible--I can feel them on both front & back.  Clenching has happened because I have a crown in back that needs repair and hurts at night, so I clench--otherwise, I don't--I can tell from sore muscles in the morning if I've been clenching or not. Will rsinds & veneers cover both front and back to protect cracks on both sides?

Answer
Dear Jan,

No-- by definition, a veneer only primarily covers the front surface of a tooth, and provides little if any protection. In fact, as I implied above, veneers are prone to breakage, and should not be used when there is any danger of clenching or grinding. Full coverage of a tooth requires a crown. (Bonded resin fillings don't cover the tooth completely, either, but the intent is temporary cosmetic repair.)

Good luck!

Mark Bornfeld DDS