What Should I Do If My Veneer Chips or Cracks? A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understanding Dental Veneers and Their Vulnerability

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic solution used to enhance the appearance of teeth. Made from thin layers of porcelain or composite resin, veneers are bonded to the front of teeth to correct imperfections such as discoloration, chips, or gaps. While veneers can provide a natural and flawless look, they are not indestructible. Over time, or due to an accident, veneers can chip or crack, leading to potential issues that need to be addressed promptly.

Understanding the causes of veneer damage can help you better protect them and address any issues that arise. Factors such as grinding your teeth, chewing on hard objects, or even accidents can result in the chipping or cracking of veneers. With proper care, however, the risk of damage can be minimized.

2. Immediate Steps to Take If Your Veneer Chips or Cracks

If you notice that your veneer has chipped or cracked, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage and to seek the appropriate treatment. Here are the steps you should follow:

Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

First, assess the extent of the damage. Is the chip small or is the crack significant? If it's a minor chip or crack and you’re not experiencing any pain, it may be possible to wait until your dentist appointment. However, if the veneer is causing discomfort or the damage is extensive, you should contact your dentist immediately for advice and potential repair.

Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side

If your veneer has cracked or chipped, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Chewing can put pressure on the damaged veneer, which could cause further damage or even dislodge it entirely. If the damage is severe, it’s advisable to avoid eating altogether until you’ve seen a dentist.

Contact Your Dentist Immediately

Once you’ve assessed the damage, contact your dentist as soon as possible. If the damage is significant or causing discomfort, your dentist may recommend temporary measures to protect the area until permanent repairs are made. In some cases, your dentist may schedule an emergency appointment to address the issue right away.

3. How to Prevent Veneer Damage in the Future

While it’s not always possible to prevent veneer damage, there are several measures you can take to reduce the risk and extend the life of your veneers:

Avoid Hard Foods and Objects

One of the most common causes of veneer damage is biting down on hard foods or objects. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other tough items that could cause stress on your veneers. If you tend to bite on pens or pencils, try to break the habit to avoid unnecessary strain on your veneers.

Wear a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth

If you grind your teeth, especially at night, it's essential to wear a mouthguard. Teeth grinding can wear down veneers over time and lead to cracks or chips. A custom-fitted mouthguard will protect both your veneers and natural teeth from the damaging effects of grinding.

Regular Dental Checkups

Regular visits to your dentist are key to maintaining the health of your veneers. Your dentist can check for any signs of damage, wear, or loosening, and can make adjustments as needed. Routine checkups also give your dentist the opportunity to clean your veneers and ensure that no plaque or bacteria buildup occurs around them.

4. Repair Options for Damaged Veneers

If your veneer has cracked or chipped, don’t worry—there are several options available for repairing or replacing the damaged veneer:

Bonding

For small chips or cracks, your dentist may recommend dental bonding. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the damaged area, which is then shaped and polished to blend with the surrounding tooth. Bonding is a quick and effective way to restore the appearance of your veneer, especially for minor damage.

Veneer Replacement

If the damage is too severe for bonding or if the veneer is structurally compromised, your dentist may recommend replacing the entire veneer. The new veneer will be custom-made to match your original tooth’s color and shape, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Temporary Solutions

If you can’t get in to see your dentist right away, there are temporary solutions available. Dental repair kits are available over the counter and can be used to temporarily seal or cover the damaged area until you can get professional treatment. However, this should not be seen as a permanent fix, and you should still see your dentist as soon as possible.