Veneers are a great cosmetic solution for significantly improving the appearance of your smile. But if you’ve invested in veneers and they are damaged, what should you do?

What are Veneers?

Veneers are extremely thin, custom-made “shells” that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth, masking imperfections such as chips, cracks, discoloration, and minor misalignments. They are made from incredibly durable material. Even though they are impressively thin, they are pretty tough. But, while veneers are durable and long-lasting, they are not indestructible.

Common Causes of Veneer Damage

Veneers can become damaged in similar ways that natural teeth are damaged, including:

• Trauma or impact: Accidentally biting down on hard objects, experiencing a fall, or suffering a blow to the face can cause veneers to chip, crack, or dislodge.
• Grinding or clenching: Bruxism, the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, can put excessive pressure on veneers, leading to damage over time.
• Decay or gum disease: If the underlying tooth or surrounding gum tissue becomes compromised due to decay or periodontal disease, the veneer may lose its support and become damaged.
• Improper care: Neglecting proper oral hygiene or using abrasive dental products can cause veneers to deteriorate prematurely.

What to Do if Your Veneers are Damaged

If you notice that one or more of your veneers are chipped, cracked, or loose, you want to take action right away to prevent further damage and protect your oral health.

Contact Your Dentist Immediately

The first step is to contact us and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Explain the nature of the damage and any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as pain or sensitivity. We will assess the damage and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

Protect the Damaged Veneer

Until you can see your dentist, you should try to protect the damaged veneer and your underlying tooth. If the veneer is loose but still attached, avoid biting or chewing with that portion of your mouth. If the veneer has come off completely, store it in a safe container and bring it with you to your dental appointment.

Don’t’ Skip Out on Good Oral Hygiene

Continue to practice good oral hygiene habits, gently brushing and flossing around the affected area. Avoid flossing that specific tooth, as this can cause further damage or discomfort.

Restoration Options for Damaged Veneers

The type of restoration your dentist recommends will depend on the damage to your veneer and the condition of your underlying tooth. Common restoration options include:

Veneer Repair

Chipped, cracked, or broken veneers typically cannot be repaired. However, if your veneer came off but is still intact, we may be able to simply re-bond it to the tooth.

Veneer Replacement

In cases of damage to the veneer, will likely recommend replacing the veneer entirely. This process involves removing any remaining veneer material, preparing the tooth, and bonding a new custom-made veneer in place.

Alternative Restorations

If the underlying tooth has been compromised due to decay or trauma, your dentist may suggest alternative restorations, such as a dental crown or implant. Crowns cover the entire tooth, providing greater protection and durability. Implants, on the other hand, replace a missing tooth. Don’t worry, these restorations can be matched to the color of your other veneers.

Protect Your Veneers

To protect your investment and to minimize the risk of damage, consider the following tips.

• Wear a mouthguard for playing sports or if you grind your teeth at night
• Avoid biting on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or fingernails
• Practice good oral hygiene, gently brushing twice a day and flossing daily
• Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain the health of your teeth and gums

If your veneers have been damaged, don’t panic. Call our office ASAP! We can help you get your smile back to beautiful in no time.