After all the time you put into getting and maintaining them, you might not want to think about what might happen if you lose a veneer. That said, most people who have them will have to replace their veneers eventually, and having one fall out is far from uncommon. If it happens to you, here’s what you should do.
What Should I Do If a Veneer Comes Loose?
If you’ve lost your veneer, the first thing to do is to try and find it. It’s possible that it can be reapplied, which will save you some headaches down the line. Put it somewhere safe until it can be reattached.
Then, call your dentist, and they’ll try and get you scheduled for an emergency appointment as quickly as possible. It’s crucial that you do not try and reattach your veneer on your own—you could damage both the porcelain and your teeth irreparably. Many of the glues you’d use at home are also toxic, so putting them in your mouth isn’t really advisable.
If your veneer has broken, you should still try and save it. The chances of replacing it are lower, but it’s still possible.
Why Veneers Fall Off & How to Prevent That
The cement used to attach your veneers to your teeth is strong, but most people will want to replace their veneers at some point, so it’s designed not to be permanent. With that being the case, your veneers may fall out on their own if they’re over ten years old.
That said, there are some factors that can cause your veneers to come off prematurely. Here are a few:
- Tooth decay eroding the natural tooth, compromising its ability to support the veneer.
- Whitening toothpaste or mouthwash that contains alcohol can both weaken the cement on your veneers.
- Eating hard candy, chewing ice, or using your teeth to open packages can all cause significant issues.
- Grinding your teeth at night or when anxious can weaken your veneers over time.
The best ways to make your veneers last are to take care of them properly, prevent tooth decay, and avoid eating anything that could crack them. If you’re used to taking care of your natural teeth, you should be fine; if you’re still learning, then keep these tips in mind in case the worst happens.
About Our Practice
At Rauchberg Dental Group, we want it to be easy to look and feel your best. That’s why we have six experienced dentists on staff—so you can find just about any dental procedure you’d need under one roof. From simple checkups to meticulously crafting your veneers, we feel confident in our ability to you your perfect smile.
If you have any questions about dental emergencies, we can be reached at our website, or by phone at (973) 718-9887.