I have about had it with my implant dentist trying to get the color right on my porcelain crown. It has been redone three separate times. Every time I would get my hopes up and then I’d be disappointed again and again. I think my dentist was so sick of me the last time I went back in. He basically told me to just be content that the implant was working and functioning well. He said that I was asking too much out of the procedure.

I had a flipper before and honestly, I liked the way that looked more than the final product of my dental implant. I just want my smile to look even and for the implant crown to not stand out. I feel like every time I smile, that is all I see. At first it felt to grey, then too bright. Now, it honestly looks yellow to me.

This last time he explained that I should be thankful that the post is still secure, since the crown has been redone so many times. This makes me nervous to get the crown done again or to get a second opinion. I feel like I’m stuck. But, I just am not happy with the result.

Am I running the risk of compromising the implant post if I try to get someone else to fix the color again? I definitely don’t want to start the entire dental implant process over again. But, I get the feeling this dentist is just done with me and trying to get rid of me.

Any insight you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

– Sharon in California

Sharon,

Thank you so much for reaching out. First off, I’m so sorry you are having such a hard time with your current implant dentist. If you are honestly thinking that your flipper looked better than the end result of your new dental implant crown, it is obvious that this dentist is not focused on the aesthetics of the porcelain crown. The good news is that the dental implant post sounds like it is secure. But, the way it looks is also important. Not every implant dentist is a great cosmetic dentist. In fact, there is not a designated specialty area within dentistry in either of these areas. Therefore, it is difficult for a patient to navigate, since you likely trusted that your dentist could deliver. Well, after the third try, it doesn’t sound like he is the dentist to get this right.

The answer to your question about having the crown redone again is no. The dental implant will not be damaged from another time of grinding it down. And you are right to consider a second opinion at this point. I don’t know specifically where you are located in California, but there are many reputable cosmetic and implant dentists in the state.

You never mentioned which tooth the implant is on. But since you mention that it disappoints you every time you smile, I’m wondering if it is a front tooth. So, it would be in your best interest to find the best cosmetic dentist in your area. Things to look for are extensive training in cosmetic dentistry, a full portfolio of work similar to your case and training beyond dental school on cosmetic dentistry. In order to do beautiful, lifelike work on a front tooth does require a high level of skill. So, take your time finding the right dentist for you. An excellent cosmetic dentist will let you see exactly what the end result will look like before it is bonded in place. Sometimes, it may take a couple tries to get it right. But, a true cosmetic dentist cares deeply about you getting the result you love.

It sounds like your dentist is giving up out of frustration. There are standard Vita shades, for example – A1 is too grey/white and A2 is too yellow. This matching works fine on a back tooth that isn’t visible when you smile. But for a front tooth, a cosmetic dentist will customize the shade to meet your specific needs. There is much detail that goes into selecting the final shading, getting the tint just right and perfecting the art of the appropriate translucency. Not any dentist can do that. Less than two percent of dentists actually have the skills to get this perfect that deserve to be called cosmetic dentist. That is also where the initial try session in is essential. This is an appointment where the cosmetic dentist will temporarily place your crown and let you see it. Any feedback can be given to the ceramist to get it perfect. And it all takes place prior to it being permanently bonded in place. It doesn’t sound like your current dentist is willing to do that, or even has the skill and knowledge to achieve the results you deserve. Most excellent cosmetic dentists wouldn’t cement the crown in place until you absolutely gave confirmation that you loved the way it looks.

So, it’s time to move on. Your dentist is not focused on appearance, he is more focused on function. And that is OK. He just needs to recognize his limitations so other patients don’t have to experience what you have so far.

Thank you for reaching out. Hopefully, this gives you the encouragement you need to move on and find the best cosmetic dentist in your area to get this right.

This post is sponsored by Petaluma dentist Dr. Rick Lane.