I have some front teeth that not only have a gap between them, but are also off to the right a little, which puts another gap to the left. My dentist wants to do crowns on them. I suggested Lumineers or another type of porcelain veneers. He said that veneers are problematic and he only does crowns. I keep hearing from other people that they’re a great option, but don’t want to push the issue if my dentist is right. Do you have a recommendation? Other than the gaps and positioning the teeth are healthy, so I didn’t want to grind them down if I didn’t need to.

Daisy F. – New Mexico

Daisy,

Porcelain veneers in themselves aren’t problematic, but they might be for your dentist. Based on what you said, he is strictly a general dentist and has no cosmetic skills.  You’re right that porcelain veneers would be less invasive than crowns. Most dentists would hate to take away healthy tooth structure.

In this case you have two choices.

1. You can stick with your dentist and go with the crowns.  Make sure he can address the off-center issue. You don’t just want to fill in the gaps with the crowns and still have them off center. Dont’ push him into the veneers or it will end up a disaster. He’s just not qualified to do them.
2. You can find and experienced cosmetic dentist and have them do either Lumineers or another brand of porcelain veneers. Let your cosmetic dentist decide which brand, because they all have different pros and cons and he or she will know which brand will work best for your smile.

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