Dentistry/veneers

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Expert: Howard Finnk, D.D.S., P.A., CEO - 7/3/2009


Question
QUESTION: Hi, I hope u may be able to advise me!
I had porcelain veneers fitted when I was 19 due to problems with the enamel on my teeth. 9 years later, it is time to replace them. I have been to a cosmetic dentist with an excellent reputation (in Liverpool, UK) and last week I had the preparation appointment, and I am now in my temporary veneers. I am due to have my new permanent veneers fitted in 2 weeks time. The difficulty is that I have been experiencing some sensitivity, particularly in the two central front teeth. It is not a sharp pain, more of a nagging senstivity and "twinging" feeling. Through the day its ok and then it seems to be of an evening it gets worse. The dentist has said that I might need root canal treatment on them but to see how it goes for now. I am really concerned about this as I'm worried that the final veneers will be put on, only to end up being changed for crowns after the root canals, which will also be additional expense. The main thing I'm worried about however is the aesthetics as tehse are my front teeth.
Any advice would be really appreciated, as to what you think might be best in this situation. Also can porcelain crowns look natural? I'm worried about them looking false, if this it what I need. Would much rather have veneers! Many thanks for your help

ANSWER: Dear A:  Porcelain crowns can look every bit as natural as veneers, and will last longer and protect your teeth better than veneers.  The sensitivity is most likely due to leakage around the gumline of the veneers.  Have your dentist test them for cold sensitivity.  If they respond to cold, you likely just need them re-sealed.  Do not have the veneers permanently placed until you are as sure as you can be that they will not be sensitive after placement.  Let me know what you find out.  dd

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

QUESTION: Thank you ever so much for your reply. Can I just clarify, it is possibly leakage on the temps? I do hope I dont need root canals, but its good to know that crowns can look good if this is what I end up needing. Its very warm here at the moment (for a change!) and when having ice water etc I can feel a response in the front teeth, if this is an indicator. Thanks again for your time, Ali

Answer
If the veneer preparations were as conservative as they should have been, there is only about a 1% chance that your teeth should need root canals.  The fact that you feel cold is a good sign.  Assuming the veneers fit well, it is very likely that once they are sealed to the teeth, the sensitivity will go away.  Good luck.  dd

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Howard Finnk, D.D.S., P.A., CEO

Expertise

I am a Family, Implant and Cosmetic dentist. I will answer questions on any aspect of dentistry and matters relating to the smile, gums, jaws and lower face. Member American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, Broward County Dental Association, and Atlantic Coast District Dental Association. I have served as District Council Member of Alpha Omega, as well as serving for one term as its President. I am also a member of The Vedder Honors Society, Broward Dental Research Clinic, and Mount Sinai Hospital Guild. I have served as a Volunteer for Project Dental Health and The Tri-County Dental Health Council.

Experience

Having attained over 30 years of clinical experience in private practice in Michigan, in 2001 I was re-certified by taking and passing the Florida State Dental Board Examination. After moving to Florida, I spent nearly 10 years re-honing my skills while working as an Associate Dentist for several large dental groups. In September, 2004, I was appointed Adjunct Clinical Professor at Nova University's College of Dental Medicine. I am certified in placement of Mini Dental Implants, and I am Director of The Florida Implant Center (floridaimplantcenter.com). On March 1, 2010, at the age of 62, I began all over again by buying a dental practice near my home in the Fort Lauderdale area. As sole owner and Chief Dental Officer of the new Nob Hill Dental Center (nobhilldentalcenter.com), I can now carefully provide dental care to patients who care, all within a caring, joyful environment. Over my career lifetime, I have provided thousands of diagnoses, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, periodontal treatments, TMJ therapies, partials, dentures and extractions, and dozens of implants for my patients. The only aspect of dentistry with which I have very little experience is orthodontics.

Organizations
American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, Broward County Dental Association, Atlantic Coast District Dental Society, Vedder Honors Society, Broward Dental Research Clinic, Alpha Omega Alumni Association, and American Association of Dental Implantologists. Formerly, American Academy of General Dentistry, Michigan Dental Association, Macomb Dental Society, Detroit District Dental Society, Tri-County Dental Health Council (a charitable dental care organization)

Publications
"How To Save Money At The Dentist" Going to press soon.

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Psychology from Wayne State University Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of Detroit College of Dentistry Adjunct Clinical Professor, Special Needs Department, Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Awards and Honors
Membership in The Vedder Honors Society

Past/Present Clients
HIPAA rules do not allow me to post this information.

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