Monthly Archives: January 2015

Dentures

Can my dentures be changed?

I got dentures a couple of weeks ago. The fit OK.  I knew they wouldn’t be as comfortable as my natural teeth. The thing that is bothering me, though is how they look.  It’s not that they look completely fake. It’s just that they don’t look anything like my natural teeth. Can my dentist change that or am I stuck with it?

Jessi D. – Hawaii

Jessi,

I’m sorry for what you’re experiencing.  Unfortunately, the only way for you to change the appearance of your dentures is to have them re-done.  I know that is probably not what you want to hear.

You’ll need to be aware that many dentists go into the field because they like to fix things.  While they may be good at that kind of thing, they may not be artistic.  It’s very likely that even if your dentist did re-do your dentures, they wouldn’t look any better.

You’ll need a dentist with an expertise in cosmetic work.  Ideally, you should get someone who is AACD accredited, then you could be sure that they were artistic.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Jerome Cha.

Porcelain Veneers

Must a dentist be AACD accredited to place porcelain veneers?

I’m getting porcelain veneers this year. Yay me!  I’m very excited. I’ve been doing a lot of research and most people say that I’ll want a dentist who is accredited with the American Academy of Cosmeetic dentistry. Is that really necessary or can any cosmetic dentist place porcelain veneers?

Rachel E. – North Carolina

Rachel,

You’ve done your research, which is fantastic. You’re also asking an important question. Technically, any cosmetic dentist  can place the porcelain veneers. The bonding isn’t the issue nearly as much as the artistry. That is where having a dentist who is AACD accredited will really make a difference.

In order to reach accreditation level, dentists have to demonstrate their technical skill and training through stringent examination. They also have to provide sample cases in order to demonstrate their artistic ability.

Only about the top 1-3% of dentists reach this level. If I were getting a smile makeover with porcelain veneers, I would want an accredited dentist to do my veneers.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Jerome Cha.