Doctor, We Have a Problem: Steps to Take If Your Veneer Falls Off

The chances are slim, but that’s the thing about misfortune: you never think it’ll happen to you. Then you find yourself walking along one day and all a sudden, your veneer has fallen off your teeth! If this happens, don’t panic. Follow these steps to protect your tooth and make it easier for your dentist to restore your smile.

Find and Save the Veneer

If your veneer falls out, look for it and carefully pick it up. Avoid touching or handling it more than necessary, and don’t try to clean it with harsh chemicals or abrasive products.

Place the veneer in a small, clean container so you can bring it to your dental appointment. Your dentist can examine it and determine whether it can be safely reattached or whether a replacement is necessary.

Don’t Try to Glue It Back Yourself

You may be tempted to use household glue or another adhesive to put your veneer back in place. Don’t do this. Household adhesives aren’t designed for use in your mouth and could damage your tooth, irritate your gums, or make professional treatment more difficult.

Your dentist has the appropriate materials and techniques to determine whether the veneer can be bonded back onto the tooth.

Protect the Exposed Tooth

Once a veneer comes off, the underlying tooth may feel more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. Until you can see your dentist, try to avoid foods and beverages that trigger discomfort.

Continue brushing and flossing carefully to keep the area clean. If the exposed tooth feels sharp, avoid biting hard foods with it. Be particularly careful if the tooth was significantly prepared before the veneer was placed.

Contact Your Dentist

Call your dentist as soon as possible after your veneer falls off. Even if you aren’t experiencing pain, the underlying tooth may need protection or evaluation.

Your dentist will examine the tooth and the veneer to determine what caused the veneer to come off. Possible solutions may include re-bonding the existing veneer or creating a new one if the restoration is damaged or no longer fits properly.

Seek Prompt Care for Pain or Injury

A fallen veneer isn’t usually a life-threatening emergency, but significant pain, swelling, bleeding, or an injured tooth should be addressed promptly. If you experience severe symptoms, contact your dentist for guidance.

A fallen veneer doesn’t necessarily mean your smile is permanently damaged. The most important things are to save the veneer, avoid DIY repairs, protect the exposed tooth, and contact your dentist promptly. Once your dentist determines why the veneer failed, they can recommend the best way to restore your tooth and help you avoid similar problems in the future.

About the Practice

Real Dental in Grand Prairie, TX is known for creating stunning smiles in as relaxing an environment as possible. One way we help our patients achieve a beautiful grin? Veneers! If you’re interested in a glow-up for your smile, these prostheses can correct chips, cracks, discoloration, or even small gaps! Go ahead and schedule your appointment online or call (817) 406-7239.