Many people have turned to porcelain veneers to enhance their smiles and boost their confidence. These thin ceramic shells are customized to be just the right shape, shade, and size and then bonded to the front surface of your teeth to mask aesthetic issues. Plus, they’re glazed with a coating durable enough to resist a certain amount of damage and discoloration.
However, they aren’t completely invincible and can be damaged or dislodged if you’re not careful. If you’ve lost a veneer and are unsure what to do next, keep reading to learn more about it!
Why Did My Veneer Fall Off?
These prosthetics are typically considered an incredibly versatile and resilient solution. If they’re cared for correctly, they can last for 20+ years. Unfortunately, a few factors can cause them to fall off, such as:
- Its age. If your veneer is 10 or more years old, the bonding holding it in place may be fragile.
- Initial errors. If the dentist who initially placed them didn’t cement them in place properly, you’re more likely to have issues with them becoming insecure.
- Tooth decay. Cavities can erode your enamel which leaves your restoration without anything to hold onto.
- Gum disease. If your connective tissues become infected, they start to pull away from your teeth to escape the illness, exposing and weakening the seams of your veneers.
- Your diet. Eating foods that are too hard or sticky could push or yank these covers off.
If you’re unsure of the cause behind your lost veneer(s), your dentist might be able to identify the culprit when they examine your mouth. Regardless of the reason, you’ll need their help to either recement it in its proper position or replace it with a new one.
What Should I Do if My Veneer Falls Off?
It’s normal to wonder about the best next steps if you’ve just realized you lost a veneer. Remember, the enamel of the underlying tooth has been thinned so that it fits correctly. That means you’re more vulnerable to oral issues like cavities, gum disease, or injuries without your restoration in place.
First, try to find the lost veneer (or its pieces if it’s broken) and store it somewhere safe until you can see the dentist. Then, call your provider, and they’ll schedule an appropriate appointment time based on your circumstances. It’s essential to follow any special care instructions they provide over the phone to avoid hurting your smile while you wait, like avoiding overly hot or cold foods and drinks that might trigger sensitivity.
It’s not recommended that you try to reattach the veneer because many household products are toxic and not intended for oral use. However, if you have some dental wax, you can use a small amount to press over your tooth to create a comfort barrier.
Once you arrive at the appointed time, your dentist will examine your mouth to determine what’s needed to restore your veneer. You might require additional treatments like tooth-colored fillings or gum disease therapy to proceed.
About the Practice
At Dental Station Family Dentistry Waco, people of all ages benefit from two dedicated dentists who share 25+ years of combined experience. Dr. Chandler Smith and Dr. Wendy Winarick provide a full array of services to meet all of your family’s needs conveniently under one roof, including cosmetic services like veneers. They are members of the American Dental Association and other prestigious organizations, so you can trust that your smile is in good hands. If your restorations were lost or damaged, you can request an appointment on the website or call (254) 772-1827.