Clinical considerations in managing severe tooth discoloration with porcelain veneers

Abstract

Although porcelain veneer has been proposed as the treatment of choice in cases of severe tooth discoloration, clinicians should consider a multidisciplinary approach when treating complex cases. Clinicians also need to understand the masking ability of veneer restorations. Case Description. A 20-year-old woman had severe tooth discoloration, enamel hypoplasia and malocclusion. The patient first underwent orthodontic treatment to correct the dental alignment after the author extracted her hypoplastic first molars. The author then placed porcelain veneers with high-density alumina cores on the patient's maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth. The restorations were in service for seven years without complications. Conclusions and Clinical Implications. Managing severe tooth discoloration requires thorough consideration of all patient factors, treatment provided in a logical sequence and the use of porcelain veneers with adequate masking ability.