This may sound crazy… I have the worst taste in my mouth and I cannot get it do go away! I have never struggled with bad breath or anything like this in the past. But ever since I got new porcelain veneers, I have this yucky aftertaste. It’s not a taste like I need to brush or anything I can’t even pinpoint it, other than it almost tastes rancid. I kept thinking it was my hygiene and I took extra care during flossing. Then, I bumped up my brushing to three times daily and flossing morning and night. But the taste isn’t getting any better. It’s honestly getting worse. It has been a couple months. When I contacted my dentist he said it wouldn’t be the porcelain veneers and asked me to evaluate my diet. Nothing has changed in my eating habits. Please tell me you have some insight? I’m going crazy!
-Kara in California
Kara,
The rotten taste you are explaining is quite concerning. It may indicate a sign of tooth decay or infection. Yes, after any oral issues are ruled out, it would seem the next step would be to evaluate your diet. But you need to get back into the dentist and have your teeth and your cosmetic dentistry checked out. If the dentist that placed the porcelain veneers doesn’t seem interested, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion.
There is a possibility it is an issue with the dental bonding on the porcelain veneers. Since you mention the foul taste starting happening right after you got them, it is definitely worth investigating. Even the slightest gap or unique shape of the porcelain shell can cause a problem with the seal between the veneer and your natural tooth. The decay isn’t visible underneath the veneer where the bacteria can creep in without your realizing it. This is called microleakage.
If, after consulting with another cosmetic dentist, there is no issue found. Then, it may be the logical next step to meet with your general physician. But if there is indeed a problem with your porcelain veneers, you want to get it taken care of sooner than later before there is abundant decay. Hopefully, the issue is addressed before porcelain crowns or other treatment is required. Thank you for your question.
This post is sponsored by Barrington cosmetic dentist James T. Gavrilos, DDS