At Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we use high-quality techniques and materials to provide you with porcelain veneers that give you a beautiful and healthy smile makeover.

Below is a question from a patient of another dental practice about gum irritation after receiving porcelain veneers.

About four months ago, I received porcelain veneers for my four front teeth. The entire time I have been diligent about brushing and flossing, but I noticed right away that my gums were more irritated than normal and bled easily. They are swollen, but they don’t bleed every time I brush my teeth. At first, I assumed this was just a normal result of getting porcelain veneers, but the problem is getting worse.

When I went in for my regular checkup, the hygienist said I wasn’t doing a good job of flossing my teeth and that gum disease is developing. I have not slacked off on my oral hygiene since getting porcelain veneers. Is there any chance they are irritating my gums and causing them to bleed?

Thank you, Iori

Response

Iori,

What you are experiencing is not normal. There are several possible causes of your irritated gums, but we’ll discuss two.

Areas difficult to floss

When your gums are bleeding, your hygienist might recommend alternatives to flossing. In some cases, debris between your teeth and gums can be difficult to remove with dental floss. A waterpik can more effective in reaching those difficult areas.

Porcelain veneers with bulky margins

Many general dentists lack the skill needed to properly place porcelain veneers. If space is left between the veneers and your gumline, bacteria can leak in and cause irritation, inflammation, and bleeding. Excess cement or bonding material can also irritate your gums.

A dentist’s training, technique, and artistic inclination are critical factors in transforming your smile with porcelain veneers so that it’s healthy and looks natural. We recommend that you schedule a consultation with one of our accredited cosmetic dentists to get a second opinion.

Your porcelain veneers and gums will be examined to determine the cause of the swelling and bleeding. Then, we will discuss your treatment options. Call us at 404-994-4509 to schedule a consultation, or request an appointment online.