You depend on your veneers to smile with confidence, so when one falls off, it can be a cause for alarm! Just keep in mind that sometimes, it happens. While veneers are durable, they’re not indestructible. But that being said, everything will be okay! Follow these steps to calmly react to your veneer falling off in the appropriate way so you can get back to smiling proudly.
Take a Deep Breath and Find Your Veneer
If your veneer falls off, try to locate it and handle it carefully. Pick it up by the edges rather than touching the inner surface unnecessarily. Rinse it gently with water if needed, but avoid scrubbing it or using harsh cleaning products.
Check whether the veneer appears cracked or broken. Even if it looks intact, don’t assume it can be reattached without professional evaluation.
Store the veneer in a clean, protective container and bring it to your dental appointment. Your dentist may be able to re-bond it if the veneer and underlying tooth are in suitable condition.
Guard Your Exposed Tooth
When a veneer falls off, the underlying tooth may become sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. This is especially likely if enamel was removed during the original veneer preparation.
To minimize discomfort, avoid extreme temperatures and choose softer foods until your dentist evaluates the tooth. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible, and continue brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
If the exposed tooth has sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheek, contact your dentist for advice rather than attempting to reshape it yourself.
This is important to remember: Never use household glue or superglue to reattach a veneer. These products are not designed for use inside the mouth and may damage the tooth or surrounding tissues. Temporary dental products should only be used if your dentist specifically recommends them.
Contact Your Dentist Promptly!
Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. Your dentist can examine the exposed tooth, determine why the veneer detached, and recommend the appropriate solution.
Depending on the circumstances, treatment may involve re-bonding the existing veneer, repairing it, or creating a replacement. If decay, damage, or bite problems contributed to the issue, those concerns may need treatment before another veneer is placed.
Seek urgent dental care if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or signs of infection.
Keep Your Veneer from Falling Off Again
Once your veneer has been repaired or replaced, protect your investment with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Avoid biting hard objects, chewing ice, or using your teeth to open packaging. If you grind or clench your teeth, ask your dentist whether a custom nightguard could help protect your restorations.
A fallen veneer doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need an entirely new restoration. Acting quickly, protecting the exposed tooth, and contacting your dentist can help you get your smile back on track.
About the Author
Dr. Tarangini Suggala has earned 2 dental degrees: one in her native India, and the other from the prestigious Goldman School of Dental Medicine at Boston University. Through her formal schooling, continuing education efforts, and 10-plus years of practicing, Dr. Suggala has experience in cosmetic, restorative, and surgical dentistry. She’s also a certified Invisalign provider. For more information on veneers and other services, visit our website or call our Carrollton office at (972) 446-1111.