What do I do if I chipped my tooth veneer? First, don’t worry too much. You’re not the first person this has happened to. You may feel silly if you just tried to take a bite out of a piece of hard candy, but it’s just as likely that your veneer chipped because of long-term wear. One of the more common reasons for needing veneers repaired is a condition called bruxism, where one clenches or grinds their teeth.
Second, schedule an appointment with your prosthodontist, or if you didn’t go to one the first time, do yourself a favor and find one this time. You should get all of your dental prosthetics—including crowns, bridges, veneers, dentures, and implants—placed by a prosthodontist and not just your dentist. Prosthodontists are specialized in the field and have gone through three years of extensive education and training before they could practice.
How easy are veneers to fix?
If your veneer broke off as one large chunk, it could be very easy for your prosthodontist to reattach the whole thing, but every case is different, and there isn’t an easy way to know how much work will need to be done until your prosthodontist looks at it.
Sometimes the way that veneers chip can leave sharp edges of your teeth exposed. This can get in the way of eating or even talking. If the tooth is very sharp, you can grab some dental wax and work it over the edge, protecting your tongue and surrounding gums until you can make an appointment.
Your teeth may be sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but they should be ok until you’re able to get to your prosthodontist to fix the problem. You should try to resolve the problem as quickly as you can, however, because further chips are likely when the veneer has been compromised.
What type of material is your veneer?
Veneers are traditionally made from one of two materials: resin (acrylic) or porcelain. Porcelain is the stronger material, and it tends not to stain as easily. Because of these reasons, porcelain is the more expensive option, but if properly taken care of, porcelain veneers can last between ten and fifteen years. There are even cases where they’ve lasted twenty years!
If you don’t know what material your veneers are made of, it’s not a problem. Resin veneers are often easier to replace without having to shave off any of the natural tooth, but they also don’t look as real, and they also don’t last as long. If you originally had resin veneers placed, this might be the sign that it’s time to get porcelain.
Will I be able to save my veneer?
Unfortunately, I can’t give you a definitive answer online. If it broke off in a clean piece, it’s possible that the whole thing can be reattached with little fuss, but if it doesn’t reattach properly, you may need to start with an entirely new veneer. Only an experienced prosthodontist is going to be able to diagnose and fix the problem for you.
If you’re uncertain about the quality of the veneers that you had placed, it never hurts to get a second opinion. Make sure you’re going to someone who has experience forming and placing veneers. It’s easy to think that everyone is the same, but that really isn’t the case.
What should I do with the pieces?
Take care of whatever broke off because it might make replacement easier. Wrap it in a tissue or soft paper and keep in a hard protective case. Try to keep it safe from further chips and cracks because each further break makes it less likely that it will be of use.
Bring the piece or pieces in when you talk with your prosthodontist, and they’ll be able to give you a good idea if it’s salvageable.
Let’s fix it!
Come in and talk to us. At Dr. Stone’s practice, we never charge to begin the conversation. If you’re happy with your veneer, Dr. Stone would love to help get it back in shape, but if you’re wanting to talk about other options, we’re more than willing to help you find what’s right for you.
Dr. Stone has been practicing for over thirty years, and he’d love to use his expertise to help you make the right next step and then do the work to get you there. Schedule your complimentary consultation today!
