I spent a fortune to get my smile to look attractive. The first problem was my small mouth. It caused my teeth to push outward, giving me a small overbite. Then, I had two missing back teeth which my dentist placed mini-implants because my mouth is so small. I wanted porcelain veneers for the front teeth but he said because my front teeth fit over the bottom teeth I’d be better off with dental crowns. Now my front teeth are so big I look like I have horse teeth. They’re so big, it is hard for me to close my mouth. Most of the time, I have to keep it open. Now I’m a mouth-breather!!! After all this money for a pretty smile, I’m more embarrassed than I ever was about my teeth. Is there anything I can do about this? My dentist swears it looks great and I’m just not used to the difference.

Stacey

Dear Stacey,

I’m very sorry you are going through this. My guess is that you went to your family dentist for this smile makeover, instead of an expert cosmetic dentist. There are a few things which point this out. First, a true cosmetic dentist would never tell you that you’re just not used to the new look. Instead, they would work to give you the smile of your dreams. In fact, most of them have a beautiful smile guarantee.

Second, using porcelain crowns instead of porcelain veneers is a huge mistake. I know he blamed your overbite, but that was a bogus excuse. Because porcelain veneers only cover the front of your teeth, hugging the sides a bit, they make more sense for an overbite. They don’t impact that back of the teeth at all. Dental crowns, on the other hand, not only go around your whole tooth, but your dentist also had to grind your teeth down to nubs.

Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about that now. You are stuck with crowns. However, you don’t have to be stuck with horse teeth. Generally, if the only thing wrong with your teeth is their appearance, the patient doesn’t have much recourse. Luckily, your case was so bad, that you can’t even shut your mouth. Believe it or not, this works in your favor.

Having to breathe through your mouth causes dry mouth. Our saliva is an important part of our defense against decay. Without that, you’ll end up with significant decay. This means your case is not technically sound, giving you greater leverage for a refund.

Getting a Disastrous Smile Makeover Fixed

What you need is an expert cosmetic dentist to fix this. First, I’d see one from the mynewsmile.com. These dentists have been vetted for both their technical skills and their artistry. Not only can they look at your case and help you secure that refund, but they can also re-do your smile to finally give you the one you’ve been dreaming of. While you are there, have them look at your dental implants. I’m a little concerned that he used mini implants. Those aren’t strong enough to secure a dental crown.

This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Warren Krutchick.