Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, helping patients achieve a brighter, more even smile. While many veneer procedures deliver excellent results, problems can arise when treatment is poorly planned, incorrectly carried out, or fails to meet acceptable standards.
From veneers that repeatedly fall off due to damage to the underlying teeth to infection nerve damage and lasting sensitivity, failed veneer treatment can have both physical and emotional consequences. In some cases, patients may be entitled to pursue dental negligence claim if their treatment has caused avoidable harm.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells, typically made from porcelain or composite resin, that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance.
They are commonly used to address:
- Discoloured teeth
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Minor alignment issues
- Uneven tooth shapes
When fitted correctly, veneers should look natural, feel comfortable, and provide a long-lasting cosmetic improvement.
When Does a Failed Veneer Become Dental Negligence?
Not every disappointing cosmetic treatment is the result of dental negligence. However, problems may arise when a dentist fails to provide treatment that meets acceptable standards.
Examples of poor veneer treatment can include:
- Poor treatment planning
- Incorrect tooth preparation
- Improper fitting or bonding
- Failure to diagnose existing dental issues
- Lack of informed consent
- Failure to explain treatment risks and limitations
Common Problems Associated with Failed Veneers
Veneers That Keep Falling Off:
Veneers are designed to remain securely bonded to the tooth. If they repeatedly detach or fall off shortly after treatment, this could mean there are problems with the bonding process, preparation techniques, or treatment planning with the veneer treatment.
Poor Cosmetic Results:
Many patients choose veneers to improve their smile, so disappointing cosmetic outcomes can be particularly distressing. Patients may experience uneven or discoloured appearance or damage to the natural tooth
Potential problems patients can experience that may occur after veneer treatment can include:
- Increased sensitivity
- Cracked teeth
- Weakened enamel
- Long-term dental problems
- Gum Problems such as increased sensitivity
While some temporary sensitivity or discomfort may occur after treatment, persistent pain should not be ignored. Long-term implications may indicate underlying treatment issues that require further assessment and cost.
The Impact of Failed Veneers
The effects of failed veneer treatment often extend past cosmetic concerns. You may be experiencing pain, discomfort or tooth sensitivity following veneer treatment which can be common, however if consistent, failed cosmetic treatment can also affect your confidence and wellbeing.
Correcting failed veneer treatment can be expensive, particularly where replacement veneers or restorative work is unexpectedly required.
Signs You May Have Grounds for a Dental Negligence Claim
Every dental negligence case is different, and there are many different factors that may indicate negligent treatment has occurred.
You may have grounds to pursue a negligence claim if:
- Your veneers failed significantly sooner than expected.
- Treatment caused avoidable damage to your teeth or gums.
- Additional corrective treatment is now required.
- Another dental professional has identified concerns with the treatment provided.
What Should You Do If You Believe Your Veneers Have Failed?
- Seek a Second Opinion
An independent, separate dental assessment can help identify whether the treatment was carried out to an acceptable standard, and provide clarification
- Keep Records of Your Experience
Maintaining a record of symptoms, appointments, and treatment costs and requesting dental records can be helpful and provide information about the treatment received if there are concerns about negligent treatment.
- Seek Legal Advice
A specialist dental negligence solicitor can assess your circumstances and advise whether you may have grounds to pursue a claim.
Case study (Jordan Ellis)
Jordan a client at the Dental Law Partnership recently was awarded £25,000 after his dental practice provided inadequate veneer treatment over several years.
His failed veneer treatment resulted in failed crowns, multiple veneer and root canal procedures that led to the failure of two veneers, and both of those teeth will now be lost in the future, as well as the loss of another tooth due to failure to diagnose and treat decay.
You can read the full story here: https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-15612915/father-glue-teeth-failed-veneer-wins-payout.html
While every case is different, Jordan’s experience demonstrates how problems with veneer treatment can sometimes go beyond a disappointing cosmetic result and may amount to dental negligence.
If you are concerned about any failed veneer treatment you have experienced, it may be worth seeking advice from a specialist dental negligence law firm like the Dental Law Partnership, we can offer advice and guidance and point you in the right direction even if that isn’t us.
Contact us today for a free no obligation chat and find out what options you may have.