Dental veneers are designed to be tough. They are durable but not indestructible. Even veneers can be damaged by extreme forces, just like your natural teeth or other restorations.
Treatment for a broken veneer is always replacement since dentists usually do not recommend repairing them. This article will cover the causes of broken veneers, management, and measures taken to prevent broken veneers.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are customized shells that fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. They can conceal cracks, chips, stains, and other cosmetic imperfections. Veneers are one of the most common and popular cosmetic procedures that can rejuvenate your smile and enhance your overall appearance.
Dental veneers are highly durable and can last up to 15 years with proper care. Yet, they can break.
What causes broken veneers?
A veneer can break as a result of:
- Improper design, fit, or placement (dental error)
- Bruxism (grinding of your teeth)
- Biting hard food substances like ice (on a regular basis)
- A sudden blow or impact on the face
- Secondary decay under the veneer
- Severe gum disease
- Debonding (separation of the veneer from the tooth without physically breaking)
How to manage a broken veneer?
When you have a broken veneer, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible. Collect the dislodged portion of the broken veneer and wrap it in a clean cloth.
You must carry the broken fragment of the veneer when you visit the dentist.
How can a broken veneer be treated?
Composite veneers can sometimes be repaired, but porcelain veneers always require a replacement.
- Your dentist will inspect your tooth and take X-rays to rule out any trauma to the tooth structure.
- Full mouth impressions are taken to fabricate the porcelain veneer.
- Your dentist may provide temporary veneers to protect your tooth.
- Once the final veneer is ready, your dentist will fix it using dental cement.
How to prevent a veneer from breaking?
The following considerations can help prevent a veneer from breaking:
- Get your veneer fabricated by a skilled and reputable dentist. This can prevent a veneer from breaking due to dental errors.
- Avoid hard foods.
- Avoid compulsive chewing behavior, like chewing on pencils.
- Do not grind your teeth.
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups to prevent gum disease.
Remember
Although veneers are durable and long-lasting, they are not strong like your natural tooth enamel. Thus, treat them with extra care so that they can serve you well for years to come.
