Don’t Panic if Your Veneer Falls Off; Here’s What to Do!

Veneers are an effective and versatile way to completely transform your smile, and they are the open secret behind the seemingly flawless grins of many movie stars and media personalities. While these remarkable cosmetic appliances are incredibly durable, they are not invincible and may fall off in some cases. Here’s a brief guide to why your veneer may fall off and how you can address the situation.

How Can Veneers Fall Off?

During the placement process, the veneers are permanently cemented to the teeth, and they can remain in excellent shape for up to fifteen years if they receive excellent care. However, a veneer may fail for reasons such as:

• Age: Veneers do not last forever. One of your appliances may fall off if the cement holding it in place has been weakened by wear and tear.
• Untreated tooth decay: An untreated cavity can compromise the enamel supporting the cement that holds the veneer in place, making the appliance more likely to fail.
• Injury: Your veneer may be knocked loose due to trauma caused by a fall or a sports-related injury.
• Excessive alcohol use: Alcohol is acidic and can gradually weaken the cement supporting your veneer.
• Using teeth as tools: Using your teeth to open packages or bottles is an excellent way to damage your veneers and your natural enamel. Use appropriate tools such as bottle openers or boxcutters instead.

What Should I Do When My Veneer Falls Off?

Placing veneers requires the irreversible removal of dental enamel, so the treated teeth will need to wear them for protection from then on. While a lost veneer isn’t a true dental emergency, it’s still important to contact your dentist to explain the situation, receive guidance, and schedule an appointment. If possible, bring the loose veneer to your dentist’s office on the day of your visit. Your dentist may fix the appliance back in place or recommend a replacement if necessary.

How Can I Keep My Veneers from Falling Off?

Luckily, taking excellent care of veneers is pretty easy. All you’ll need to do is stick to a daily hygiene regimen of brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash while taking special care to clean around the seams between your veneers and real teeth. It’s also important to see your dentist for regular checkups so they can keep an eye on your oral health and address any issues as needed. If you play sports, wear a mouthguard to protect your smile, and if you grind your teeth in your sleep, wear a nightguard to bed.

Veneers are an investment in your appearance and your confidence. By treating them with excellent care, you can keep them in great shape for the longest possible time.

About the Author

Dr. Xinxing Liu earned her dental degree at the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine and takes great pride in helping patients in Dallas achieve their best smiles. Her office offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. To learn more about keeping your veneers in excellent shape, contact her office online or dial (469) 210-7223.