Let me first just say that I’m in love with my new Lumineers smile. I couldn’t be happier with the way my teeth look, but I’ve noticed an annoying problem – my lip seems to catch on them and get very dry. It’s so embarrassing when I am trying to talk to people. What can I do to make this stop? Did my dentist do something wrong to cause this? — Cheryl

 

Cheryl,
Lumineers can be a great way to makeover your smile – and they are ideal for many people. Considering how satisfied you are with the way your teeth look, it’s really too bad that you are having this lip issue. It’s totally understandable that you find it to be embarrassing — if  you haven’t complained to your dentist about it by now, you should!

Did your dentist do something wrong? Technically, no. Lumineers are considered “no-prep” and are often bonded directly to the teeth. When a dentist does traditional porcelain veneers, they remove about half a millimeter (approximately the thickness of a fingernail) on the front of the tooth to make space for the porcelain. This is what keeps the veneers from being too bulky.

Your Lumineers have made your teeth a little thicker and that’s what’s causing your lip to catch and get dry. No product on the market is going to make this problem go away. Plus, it can be pretty risky to have your dentist try and shave them down because they could shave right through the thin porcelain and damage your enamel. Your best option would be to have them re-done — maybe by a cosmetic dentist who has experience with other brands of ultra-thin veneers. Until then, you’ll just need to get used to it and try to make some adjustments.

This blog is sponsored by Dr. Stephen Doan. Find out more about the services he provides by visiting his La Jolla cosmetic dental website.