Question about veneers...?

Just had a consultation with a cosmetic dentist about getting my top teeth fixed. I have one very recessed tooth, second over from the right (not right next to my 2 front teeth, but one over)...





I wanted just to get that one tooth fixed with a veneer (dentist said it was too far back to do bonding), but the dentist said I would have to get all 6 of my front teeth veneered at the same time if I wanted my one tooth to "match" the others.





I can't afford nor justify spending $500 EACH on 5 perfectly good teeth in order to fix my one tooth that is recessed...





Does this sound right? Or is the dentist just trying to make extra money off of me? Do you know of any other alternatives I could do to fix my tooth?





Thanks!

Question about veneers...?
You are talking about a canine tooth. There is no reason why just that one can't be done but there are a few issues that possibly would make that less than optimal. #1 I would bet that there is not enough space between the two teeth next to the recessed one, that is why it got stuck behind, and if you only did that one it would be smaller than the canine on the other side. Symmetry is VERY important in creating a beautiful natural looking smile. You might end up looking worse than when you started. #2 is the shade issue. You can get one tooth to match perfectly but it takes a little more time and effort by the lab guy, yourself, and the dentist.





Do you like your smile, other than the one? If the only thing that bothers you is the one recessed tooth braces really would be the best way to go. If he recommended doing all 6 then he probably sees minor imperfections on the others that can be fixed. And he could also make your entire smile symmetrical too, which would be impossible if only one tooth done.
Reply:I am a dental assistant and have been for ten years. It is really hard to tell without seeing your mouth but if you only need one veneer I dont see why the dentist is recommending 6 ,I am assuming from canine to canine unless ther are some spaces or a severe shade difference in all of your teeth. If you are happy with your smile and just want the one veneer done and the dentist is just concerned about it matching properly the dentist can have you visit his/her dental lab that would be doing the veneer so that they can see your mouth and match a perfect shade. Please get a second opinion and don't be talked into anything you are not comfortable with. Good Luck!
Reply:Have you considered orthodontia? Perhaps an orthodontist could move your tooth to appear closer and in better formation.





You could also consider a crown. The difference between a veneer and a crown is that a veneer essentially just goes overtop the front of the tooth and is slightly translucent. Your dentist is right that a veneer on just one tooth toward the front, it may not match very well and you just spent $500+ for a tooth that looks goofy.


However a crown will take away healthy tooth structure to change a cosmetic issue. We never recommend taking away healthy tooth structure if it is avoidable.


If bonding is not an option, I'm not sure what to tell you. Maybe try for a second opinion...

Cosmetic