When I made the investment in porcelain veneers on my front teeth, I committed to diligent brushing and flossing to keep them looking great. But, right after I got veneers, my gums became extremely irritated. This was not normal because I have never had issues with my gums bleeding. They bleed almost every time I brush my teeth. I just assumed this was part of having new porcelain veneers. However, at my first regular cleaning appointment after getting them, the hygienist lectured me about regular oral hygiene and said I wasn’t doing a very good job. She even said it looks like I’m starting to get gum disease. The only thing that is different is the porcelain veneers and the fact that I’m brushing and flossing much more than I used to. Is this really from porcelain veneers?
-Eric in Wisconsin
Eric,
Bleeding gums after porcelain veneers is not normal. It is possible, you may have changed something about the way you are brushing or flossing subconsciously. That’s something to think about. However, it sounds like you are really doing everything you can to maintain your new porcelain veneers. If you haven’t tried it, a water pick may be beneficial to help reach difficult spots.
The bleeding gums occurring right after the placement of your porcelain veneers seems like there may be something else that could be happening. If your dentist wasn’t a highly skilled cosmetic dentist, there is a possibility that the work wasn’t done properly. For example, if the edges of the porcelain veneers are shaped incorrectly, you may have what is referred to as “bulky margins,” which basically means the veneer is not flush with the natural tooth. Therefore, bacteria and food debris can get caught in that tiny area and cause problems. Or if too much dental bonding material was used, that could also be an issue. When there is bacteria getting trapped, the gums can be irritated, which results in bleeding and tooth decay.
At this point, you can try to address it on your own by incorporating a water pick. Or you can go back to the dentist and find out more about the margins on the porcelain veneers. If indeed there are issues, they should be fixed free of charge. However, if the dentist doesn’t think there is anything wrong, it may be worth your while to seek a second opinion with an excellent cosmetic dentist in your area.
Bleeding gums after porcelain veneers is not okay and needs to be taken care of before more serious problems occur.
Good luck!
This post is sponsored by Barrington cosmetic dentist James T. Gavrilos, DDS