Porcelain veneers are designed to be durable, beautiful, and long-lasting, but they are not indestructible. Accidents, grinding, or biting into something unexpectedly hard can cause a veneer to chip, crack, or come loose. If this happens, it can be stressful, especially since veneers are such a visible part of your smile. The good news is that a broken veneer is usually fixable, and taking the right steps quickly can protect both your tooth and your appearance.
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
The first thing to do is take a breath and look closely at what happened. Veneer damage can range from a small chip to a full break or complete detachment. Minor chips may not be painful, while larger fractures can expose the underlying tooth and cause sensitivity. Pay attention to whether you feel sharp edges, discomfort when biting, or sensitivity to hot and cold. This information will be helpful when you speak with your dentist.
Protect the Tooth and Veneer
If a piece of the veneer has broken off, try to find it and keep it in a safe place. In some cases, your dentist may be able to reattach it. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, especially on hard or sticky foods, as this can worsen the damage. If the tooth feels sharp or irritating to your tongue or cheek, dental wax from a pharmacy can be used temporarily to smooth the area until you can be seen.
Avoid At-Home Fixes
It may be tempting to glue a veneer back on or try a DIY repair, but this can cause more harm than good. Household glues and over-the-counter adhesives are not designed for use in the mouth and can damage the veneer, irritate the gums, or interfere with professional repair. It’s best to leave the fix to your dentist, who has the proper materials and techniques to restore the veneer safely.
Contact Your Dentist as Soon as Possible
A broken veneer is considered a dental issue that should be addressed promptly, even if there is no pain. Call your dentist and explain what happened, including whether the veneer is chipped, cracked, or completely off. Many dental offices prioritize veneer repairs because exposed teeth can be vulnerable to decay or further damage. The sooner you’re seen, the more options you’re likely to have.
Understand Your Repair Options
The treatment for a broken veneer depends on the extent of the damage. Small chips can sometimes be smoothed or repaired with dental bonding. Larger cracks or breaks often require replacing the veneer entirely. If the veneer has come off intact, reattachment may be possible. Your dentist will also check the underlying tooth to make sure it hasn’t been damaged and that it’s still healthy enough to support a veneer.
Manage Discomfort and Sensitivity
If you experience sensitivity while waiting for your appointment, avoid extreme temperatures and stick to soft foods. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed, but persistent pain should be mentioned to your dentist right away. Sensitivity often means the tooth underneath is exposed, which reinforces the importance of prompt care.
Prevent Future Veneer Damage
Once your veneer is repaired or replaced, your dentist may recommend ways to protect your smile going forward. This could include wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth, avoiding habits like chewing ice or biting fingernails, and being mindful with hard foods. Veneers can last many years with proper care, but they do rely on good oral habits to stay intact.
Porcelain Veneers in Alpharetta, GA
At Esthetic Dental Solutions, our commitment is to making sure your smile stays strong and beautiful. If your porcelain veneers break or fall off, don’t hesitate to reach out. The sooner your take action, the better you can protect your teeth and gums. Contact us right away to schedule your appointment and ensure your smile is safe and healthy.