Why Are Two of My Porcelain Veneers Are Turning Dark?

I have eight veneers on my top front teeth that I received in March 2018. Two of the eight are starting to look bluish gray. This is scary. I am afraid my teeth behind the veneers are rotting, and I will need dental implants. My dentist said it’s ‘normal wear’ for veneers. This is just four years into having them, and they are turning colors already. I believed my dentist, but then I thought about a close friend who has had veneers for ten years, and none of hers are gray. Is there another reason that my veneers can be turning colors? Will more veneers turn dark? Thanks. Kenya from Boston, MA

Kenya,

Thank you for your question

Why Do Porcelain Veneers Darken?

Porcelain veneers can darken if there is no secure bond between them and your teeth. Then, substances can leak between your teeth and veneers. The result can be a bluish-gray color.

Note that this is not a regular occurrence, nor is it unavoidable. An expert cosmetic dentist properly bonds veneers to prevent leaking and discoloration.

Likely, the dentist who bonded your veneers is not skilled in cosmetic dentistry. Otherwise, you should not have two leaky veneers, and your dentist will know that the discoloration is not normal.

How to Restore Dark Porcelain Veneers?

We recommend that you find a skilled cosmetic dentist to examine your veneers. They can carefully remove them, clean your natural teeth and the veneers, and bond the veneers back on. The procedure is quick and completed carefully by a dentist trained in aesthetic dentistry. If the veneers continue to have a dark appearance for some reason, a cosmetic dentist must remove and replace them.

The good news is that it is unlikely you will lose any of the teeth and need a dental implant. But schedule a consultation before choosing a cosmetic dentist. The dentist you choose should be able to assess the condition of the veneers and let you know if it’s worth attempting to bond them back on or if the dentist should replace them.

Dr. Steve Sirin, an Elgin, Illinois cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.