Expert: Steven C. Scherr, D.D.S. - 5/29/2007

Question
Hello Dr. Scherr,
I originally had veneers done ten years ago and then recently I began having them done in February. I wore the temps for a month, almost and then finally the real ones came in. After being put in, completely and a day later, it was realized that they were the wrong color, fit and style. So, they reshaped them in the office as to not have to put in temporaries. I wore these for about a month. Finally, three weeks ago, I got the correct veneers put in, I think. They look smaller than the ones I specified and it has caused me to have to change my entire modeling and actor's headshots, but all in all, I can live with the difference, just to avoid further pain. Now, however, I am continuing to experience severe sensitivity in one of my front teeth. I have to cover my teethe with my lips if the wind blows. I can place my finger on the tooth and when I remove it, it hurts so badly, as if the temperature from my finger caused it. I do not know what to do and I recently relocated back to San Diego, so seeing the administering dentist is over 1,500 miles away. Is this a normal problem? And why is it getting worse, when the enamel was supposed to be resealing around the teeth inside? Thank you, Mindi

Answer
Mindi,

Sorry to hear of your difficulties.  Sensitivity following the placement of new veneers can have a number of possible causes.  Every time work is done on a tooth a little bit of the tooth's healing ability is used up.  Repeated procedures on the same tooth increase the risk of healing difficulties.  Sensitivity is a sign that the tooth has not yet fully recovered.  Certainly, other factors such as an incomplete seal, bite discrepancies, or tooth shape problems can impede recovery and contribute to more sensitivity.

It is important for a dentist that regularly works with veneers to check the tooth.  If you are unable to see your treating dentist, it is important to find another.

Mindi, I hope you are feeling better soon.

Steve