What Should I Do If My Veneer Chips or Cracks? A Guide to Repairing Damaged Veneers

1. What Are Veneers and How Do They Work?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells typically crafted from porcelain or resin composite. They are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance, covering imperfections such as chips, cracks, stains, or gaps. Veneers are an excellent cosmetic dentistry solution that can provide a natural-looking, long-lasting improvement to your smile.

Although veneers are durable and can withstand daily wear and tear, they are still susceptible to damage, especially if proper care isn’t taken. If your veneer chips or cracks, it can be both frustrating and concerning, but don’t worry—there are steps you can take to address the issue effectively.

2. Common Causes of Veneers Chipping or Cracking

While veneers are designed to be durable, they can be prone to damage due to various factors. Understanding the common causes of veneer damage can help you take precautions to protect them in the future:

Accidental Trauma

One of the most common causes of a chipped or cracked veneer is trauma from accidents, such as a fall or a direct blow to the face. Even though veneers are tough, they can break if they experience enough force.

Chewing Hard Foods

Chewing hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies can put undue pressure on your veneers. This can lead to chipping or cracking, especially if the veneer is already slightly weakened.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism, or grinding your teeth at night, is another culprit. This habit can exert excessive pressure on your veneers, causing them to crack over time. If you’re prone to grinding your teeth, a nightguard is recommended to prevent damage.

Wear and Tear

Over time, veneers can wear down from normal daily use, especially if they are not properly maintained. While they are designed to last for years, factors like improper cleaning, or exposure to acidic or abrasive substances can hasten their degradation.

3. Steps to Take When Your Veneer Chips or Cracks

If your veneer chips or cracks, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and seek professional assistance as soon as possible. Here’s what you should do:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

First, stay calm and carefully assess the extent of the damage. If the crack or chip is small, you might not feel any pain, but it’s still essential to take steps to prevent further damage. If the veneer has broken off entirely, you may need to collect the piece and take it with you to the dentist.

Step 2: Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side

To minimize the risk of further damage, avoid chewing on the side where the veneer is chipped or cracked. This will help prevent additional stress on the weakened tooth structure and keep the damage from worsening.

Step 3: Visit Your Dentist

Contact your dentist immediately if your veneer chips or cracks. Depending on the severity of the damage, your dentist may be able to repair it with a simple bonding procedure or may recommend replacing the veneer altogether if the damage is too extensive.

Step 4: Temporary Fixes

While waiting for your dental appointment, you can use over-the-counter dental wax or a temporary dental adhesive to cover the damaged area. This can help prevent sharp edges from irritating your gums or cheeks, but it is not a permanent solution.

4. Preventing Veneers from Damaging Again

Once your veneer is repaired or replaced, it’s important to take preventive measures to ensure that it doesn’t get damaged again. Here are a few tips:

Avoid Hard Foods

Avoid chewing on hard foods such as ice, hard candies, or tough meats. These can put excessive pressure on your veneers and increase the risk of chips or cracks.

Wear a Mouthguard

If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a nightguard is essential. A properly fitted nightguard will protect your veneers from the pressure and force of grinding, preventing future damage.

Regular Dental Checkups

Regular dental visits are essential to maintain the longevity of your veneers. Your dentist can check the condition of your veneers, ensure they are intact, and address any minor issues before they become significant problems.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for the health of your veneers and the underlying teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and avoid abrasive toothpaste that could damage the surface of your veneers over time.