How Can I Do If a Dentist Gave Me Crowns Instead of Veneers?

Posted by AllSmiles

How do I file a complaint if a dentist told me I was getting veneers but gave me crowns instead? I didn’t realize it until I got a second opinion on my upper right canine that began throbbing after my dentist placed the “veneers.” The second dentist told me that my teeth were ground down to nubs. My right canine needs a root canal, and the left one can’t be saved. This was so deceitful, and my teeth are ruined. How could this happen? Thanks. AW from the Midwest

AW,

Dentists sometimes use different terminology when discussing cosmetic treatments. While there can be some flexibility in language, that flexibility has limits. If your dentist described veneers in one way but delivered something different, that is unacceptable.

You deserve clear, accurate information before agreeing to any procedure. When that doesn’t happen, it raises questions about whether proper informed consent was obtained.

Understanding Veneers vs. Crowns

Veneers and crowns are not interchangeable treatments. They differ in how much tooth structure is removed and how the final restoration fits your tooth.

• Veneers are thin coverings bonded to the front of the tooth and preserve most of its natural structure
• A crown fully covers a tooth and requires more extensive reshaping
• Skill level and technique required for veneers are higher and can influence a dentist’s treatment recommendations

Because veneers require greater precision, some dentists may prefer crowns. That preference should always be clearly explained so you can make an informed choice.

How Can Aggressive Preparation Affect Teeth?

Preparing a tooth for a crown involves removing enamel and dentin. This can place additional stress on the tooth and increase the likelihood of complications.

In your case, these results suggest that tooth preparation may have been significant:

• One canine tooth requires extraction
• The other requires root canal therapy
• Both teeth appear to have been compromised during treatment

These outcomes are not typical for conservative veneer procedures, which protect the tooth rather than weaken it.

How Can You Address the Problem?

A consultation with a cosmetic dentist who routinely performs veneers can help clarify what was done and what options you have now. You can present your former dentist with documentation of your expectations vs. the treatment you received. The second-opinion dentist may be willing to speak with your former dentist and help you obtain a refund.

If your previous dentist isn’t willing to compensate you, consider reporting the issue to the state dental board.

Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post. Read about what they do to provide some of the best dental care in Chandler.