What Should I Do if My Veneer Chips or Breaks

Veneers are durable, but only to an extent, and it depends on how well you take care of them. Certain actions, including biting on nuts, getting hit in the mouth, or chewing on ice, can cause them to chip or break. Remaining calm and taking several steps after the damage happens can help you have beautiful, intact veneers once again.

Immediate Steps to Take

It can feel overwhelming and stressful when your veneer chips or breaks, but it’s important to remain clear-headed so you can do what’s best for your oral health.

If you’re wondering what to do if your veneer breaks, the first step is to evaluate what happened. Look closely at the damage and take pictures if possible in case you need to send them to your cosmetic dentist in North Hollywood. If any pieces fell off the veneer, put them in a small clean plastic container if possible so they won’t get lost. Please bring these pieces to your appointment.

Forego touching the broken or chipped veneer (or anywhere else in your mouth) with your hands so you avoid potentially worsening the situation. It’s extremely easy to transfer germs from your hands to the area, which may result in an infection.

You should also try not to run your tongue over the broken or chipped veneer. Depending on the type of damage, doing so could result in a cut tongue, particularly if it broke in a way where there’s a sharp edge or point.

It’s ideal to stick to nutrient-dense liquids and soft foods until your dentist fixes the veneer. Some options to consider can include protein shakes, mashed potatoes, bananas, avocados, yogurt, scrambled eggs, soup, and cottage cheese.

Contacting Your Dentist

Contact your dentist immediately if your veneer chips or breaks, even if it doesn’t seem like there’s major damage. Any break or chip to a natural tooth or a veneer needs a dentist’s evaluation. There may be extensive damage that won’t be noticeable until your dentist gets a closer look at the area and does X-rays.

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment for dental care and treatment. Your dentist needs to evaluate the damage in person as soon as possible. They’ll discuss with you your veneer repair options or if you need a replacement. Call Victory Plaza Dental Group for emergency dental care in Los Angeles.

Temporary Fixes and Home Care

Every situation involving a chipped or broken veneer is different. Damage can range from minimal to extensive. The more serious the damage, the more likely it is that you’ll experience pain or discomfort. Pain will typically occur if the veneer breaks as opposed to if it chips.

One of the reasons it’s vital to contact your dentist immediately is that they can properly advise you on what to do to help manage your pain or discomfort. For instance, they can suggest an over-the-counter pain reliever and the proper dosage. Your dentist may also recommend buying a temporary product from a pharmacy if the veneer is sharp to prevent the point from cutting your tongue or the rest of your mouth.

It’s also essential to take steps to try not to worsen the damage. This includes avoiding hard foods, biting your nails, brushing the area too hard, and poking at the location. It’s possible for seemingly minor veneer damage to turn extreme with one unintentional action.

Repair vs. Replacement

Two primary factors determine whether you need a dental veneer replacement or veneer repair in North Hollywood.

The first is if your veneer is composite or porcelain. Minor issues with composite veneers may be repairable while porcelain veneers usually require replacing the entire veneer, regardless of the extent of the damage.

Severe damage with either porcelain or composite veneers usually requires a full replacement. For example, a minor chip in a composite veneer may just require smoothing it out in the dental office on the day of your appointment. However, a large broken piece of veneer or a deep crack typically means a replacement. Your cosmetic dentist in North Hollywood will need to see you in person to determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

Veneer repair costs in Los Angeles can vary. However, a composite veneer or porcelain veneer repair will typically be less costly than any replacement. The good news is that, as long as there’s no further damage after you get the problem fixed, both types of veneers can last several years. Composite veneers, the least costly of the two options, usually last approximately four to seven years, and porcelain veneers can last upwards of a decade, if not longer.

However, both the upfront costs and lifespans are estimates. Implementing dental veneer protection steps into your daily routine can help prevent further damage to the veneer and extend its lifespan.

Preventing Future Damage

Veneer durability is only as good as the effort you put into your oral health. Preventing and avoiding veneer damage is much easier (and more affordable) than having to repair or replace them if an issue occurs. The following are some habits to avoid and veneer maintenance tips to implement in order to prevent chipping or breaking composite or porcelain veneers:

Habits to Avoid:

Biting fingernails
Biting on hard candy
Chewing ice
Chewing on nuts and other hard foods
Chewing on pens
Smoking

Veneer Maintenance Tips:

Wear a mouthguard while working out
Wear a mouthguard while sleeping
See your North Hollywood dentist every six months
Brush and floss daily
Use the correct toothbrush
Change your toothbrush every few months

If you notice any pain in between appointments, it’s necessary to schedule an appointment for dental care at Victory Plaza Dental Group. In some cases, a veneer can chip or crack and it may not be visible until your dentist inspects it closely. Pain is a major sign that something isn’t right. The sooner you get the issue checked, the less time you’ll have to experience pain, and the faster you’ll be able to find out what the problem is.

It’s also essential to schedule an appointment if your veneer falls off. Your dentist may recommend a temporary veneer fix, such as using a dental adhesive you can buy at your local pharmacy. However, this isn’t a long-term solution. It’s still important for you to come in as soon as possible for evaluation and a permanent veneer fix in North Hollywood.

Why Choose Victory Plaza Dental Group in North Hollywood

Victory Plaza Dental Group offers Los Angeles cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and more. We want our patients to know they can count on us for all their dentistry needs, whether they’re looking for the best dentist for veneers in North Hollywood or need another type of dental service.

Patients not only receive exceptional dental care but also access to a professional staff who care about their well-being. Every team member strives to ensure patients are as comfortable as possible during their visit. This may involve taking steps like spending extra time to talk a patient through a procedure, answering questions, and being available for assistance after a procedure.

Every patient is different, and every situation is unique. Each person who walks through our door can expect to receive personalized care and excellent customer service.

We’re honored and appreciative that many of our patients have left reviews about their experience at Victory Plaza Dental Group in North Hollywood. We encourage you to read the reviews to learn more about the type of dental experience you can look forward to receiving.

Our office has evening hours to accommodate patient needs and busy schedules. Monday and Wednesday we’re open from 10 am to 7 pm, Tuesday and Thursday we’re open from 9 am to 6 pm, and Friday we’re open from 8 am to 5 pm.

We also accommodate patients experiencing dental emergencies in North Hollywood by offering same-day emergency appointments. Please call our office immediately if you’re experiencing a chipped or broken veneer, severe pain, or another type of potential dental crisis.

Maintaining a Beautiful, Healthy Smile

Victory Plaza Dental Group in North Hollywood is your go-to dental office when you require quality services after your veneer chips or breaks. We’re committed to helping you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile you love showing off to the world. Call our office today for an appointment, and our team members will be happy to help and answer any questions you have.