Porcelain veneers are built to last a decade or more, but accidents happen. Every once in a while, you may have one that comes loose or falls off entirely, especially after biting into something hard or grinding your teeth. If it happens to you, don’t panic—a missing veneer is rarely a dental emergency, and it’s a pretty simple fix. Read on to find your four-step plan to get your smile back to normal.
Step One: Find the Veneer
If your veneer is fully detached, try to look for it. As long as it isn’t cracked or chipped, there’s a good chance your dentist can bond it right back on, which saves you the time and cost of a full replacement. Once you find it, put it somewhere safe, like a small container or a snack bag, until your appointment.
Step Two: Check Your Tooth for Sharp Edges
Run your tongue gently over the exposed tooth to check for any sharp or rough spots. If you feel something jagged, grab some dental wax. This can be found at most pharmacies and can be used to temporarily cover the tooth, preventing cuts or irritation. Just be sure to replace it every day until you go to your appointment.
Step Three: Protect the Area
The tooth underneath your veneer is usually more sensitive than your other teeth, because it’s missing a small amount of enamel. Because of this, it’s best to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, and steer clear of very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks.
Step Four: Call Your Dentist Right Away
Don’t wait for your next scheduled checkup to see your dentist. Even though most veneer issues aren’t emergencies, you don’t want to let it get worse. The exposed tooth is more vulnerable to decay and damage, especially once it’s exposed to acids from drinks or plaque. So, call as soon as possible to get seen.
Can a Fallen Veneer Always Be Reattached?
It depends on the condition of the veneer and the underlying tooth. If the veneer itself is intact, rebonding is often possible. If it’s cracked, chipped, or the bonding surface is damaged, a new veneer may need to be made—which is why bringing in the original piece, even if it’s broken, helps your dentist make the best decision for your smile.
A loose or missing veneer isn’t fun, but it’s a very fixable problem. The most important thing you can do is act quickly and calmly. Once you see your dentist, you’ll be home free in their capable hands.
About the Practice
At Clear Coast Dental, our team of experienced cosmetic dentists offers porcelain veneers that are truly built to last. And when something goes wrong, we make sure you get the support you need as fast as possible. If your veneer has come loose or fallen off, call us at (508) 812-9294 to schedule an emergency appointment today.
