Porcelain veneers are a durable and beautiful way to enhance your smile, but like any dental restoration, they aren’t indestructible. While it’s not common, a veneer can occasionally loosen or fall off due to trauma, biting hard foods, grinding, or weakened bonding. If this happens, don’t panic. Acting quickly and carefully can protect your tooth and help your dentist restore your smile.
Here’s what to do if your veneer falls off.
Stay Calm and Locate the Veneer
First, try to find the veneer. In many cases, it can be reattached if it’s still intact. Handle it carefully and avoid scraping or cleaning it aggressively. If it looks undamaged, place it in a small container to keep it safe until your dental appointment.
If the veneer broke into pieces, gather as many fragments as possible and bring them with you. Even if it can’t be reused, your dentist will want to evaluate it.
Protect the Exposed Tooth
Underneath a veneer, your natural tooth has been slightly reshaped, which can make it more sensitive when exposed. You may notice increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or air.
Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, and stay away from very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks. If the tooth feels sharp or rough, you can apply a small amount of temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) to protect it until you see your dentist. Never attempt to glue the veneer back on yourself with household adhesives.
Contact Your Dentist Right Away
Call your dental office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Even if you aren’t experiencing pain, it’s important to have the area evaluated quickly. The exposed tooth is more vulnerable to damage, decay, or sensitivity without the veneer in place.
If the veneer is still in good condition, your dentist may be able to clean it and re-bond it during your visit. If it’s damaged or the bonding surface is compromised, a new veneer may need to be fabricated.
Understand Why It Happened
During your appointment, your dentist will determine the cause. Common reasons include teeth grinding (bruxism), trauma, decay beneath the veneer, or simply wear over time. If grinding is a factor, a custom nightguard may be recommended to protect your restorations moving forward.
A fallen veneer isn’t an emergency in most cases, but prompt care is essential. By handling the situation calmly, protecting your tooth, and seeing your dentist quickly, you can restore your smile and prevent further complications.
About the Practice
Here at Columbus Dental Arts, we can bring back your smile’s luster with veneers. Our dedicated dentists and long-term team can transform your smile in just 2 visits to our office! The veneers we use are highly personalized and durable dental ceramic, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best treatment possible. Don’t wait! Contact us online or call (609) 324-9500.