Quick Answers
If you notice a brown spot under your tooth veneer, there are a few possible causes:
- Decay or cavity under the veneer
- Discolored tooth structure underneath
- Veneer is failing or becoming dislodged
- Gum recession exposing discolored tooth root
Seeing any brown coloring under a veneer likely indicates an underlying problem that should be evaluated by your dentist. Minor issues can often be repaired, but in some cases the veneer may need to be replaced.
What Causes Brown Spots Under Veneers?
There are several possible reasons you may notice brown, dark or discolored spots appearing underneath a tooth veneer:
Decay Under the Veneer
Dental veneers are made from thin porcelain or composite resin shells that cover the front surface of teeth. Getting veneers does not prevent new cavities from forming underneath the veneer on the natural tooth structure. If decay occurs under the veneer and is left untreated, it can cause brown discoloration visible through the veneer.
Discolored Tooth Structure
In some cases, the natural tooth underneath the veneer may have intrinsic discoloration within the dentin layer that shows through once the veneer is in place. This may happen if the discoloration was not fully addressed before placing the veneer.
Failing Veneer
With time, veneers can become damaged, loosen or even fall off completely. As the veneer begins deteriorating, the underlying discolored tooth structure may start to show through as brown spots along the edge or underside of the veneer.
Gum Recession
Veneers are only designed to cover the visible crown portion of the tooth. If you experience gum recession over time, it can expose discolored root structure below the veneer margin that may appear brown.
When to See a Dentist
If you notice any unusual brown spots appearing underneath a veneer, it’s important to have your dentist evaluate the cause. Here are some signs it’s time to schedule an appointment:
- Brown spot along the margin of the veneer
- Discoloration visible from the side/underside
- Chip, crack or gap along the edge of the veneer
- Part of the veneer feels rough or raised
- Tooth sensitivity underneath the veneer
- Veneer feels loose when you touch it
Waiting too long with a compromised veneer can allow decay to spread and damage the tooth further. But in many cases, prompt treatment can improve the situation.
Diagnosing the Cause of Brown Spots Under Veneers
During your dental visit, the dentist will first perform a visual examination of the veneer. They will note any evidence of loosening, cracking, or gaps that could allow discoloration to show through. Using a dental probe, they will check for areas of sensitivity or decay.
Other diagnostic tools may include:
- X-rays – Allows dentist to see below the veneer for signs of decay.
- Transillumination – Shining light behind the tooth to detect gaps.
- Dental microscope – Provides magnified view to inspect for damage.
Once the dentist determines the cause of the discoloration, they can advise the best treatment options.
Treatment Options Based on Cause of Discoloration
| Cause of Discoloration | Treatment Options |
|---|---|
| Decay under veneer | Remove decay and restore with composite filling material. |
| Discolored inner tooth | Try internal bleaching, or replace veneer. |
| Failing veneer | Repair small chips or gaps; or replace entire veneer. |
| Gum recession | Root coverage procedures or longer veneer to cover exposed root. |
Options will depend on the severity of the problem and condition of the underlying tooth structure. In some cases where decay is significant, a dental crown may be the best permanent restoration.
Preventing Future Discoloration Under Veneers
To help minimize the chances of your veneers developing brown spots again in the future:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily.
- Use non-abrasive toothpaste to limit wear on veneers.
- Avoid chewing hard foods that could crack the veneers.
- Quit smoking, as nicotine stains can discolor veneer margins.
- Have dental checkups and professional cleanings every 6 months.
- Report any chips or damage to veneers right away before decay results.
With proper care and routine dental visits, dental veneers can continue looking beautiful for many years without noticeable discoloration. But at the first sign of trouble, be sure to promptly contact your dentist to repair minor damage before it worsens.
Conclusion
Noticing a brown coloration under a veneered tooth is always a concern that warrants an evaluation by your dentist. In many cases, minor decay or a loose veneer can be repaired through minimally invasive techniques. However, heavily discolored inner tooth structure or advanced decay may require replacement of the veneer. Prevention through good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups remains key to getting long-lasting results from veneers. Addressing any problems promptly can help stop minor flaws from developing into more significant damage and expense. With proper maintenance, veneers have the potential to beautifully brighten your smile for many years.