Dental veneers are a fantastic modern invention that millions of people have taken advantage of. If you have dental veneers in Gilbert, AZ, you already know their power to transform your smile. And, like nearly everyone, odds are you’d never want to go back to the way your teeth looked before getting dental veneers. But what do you do if a dental veneer falls off? They are meant to be permanent, but every once in a while, there is a chance that a dental veneer can fail.
Steps to Follow When a Dental Veneer Falls Off
Losing a dental veneer can be stressful, but knowing the right steps to take can help you avoid further complications. Whether you’re dealing with this issue at home or on the go, following these steps will ensure you receive the best care from AZ Dentistry, a trusted provider of dental services in AZ. Veneers are designed to enhance your smile, and with the right approach, you can restore their functionality and aesthetics quickly.
1. Stay Calm and Retrieve the Veneer
The first step involves locating the veneer. If it’s intact, store it safely in a small container or tissue to prevent damage. Avoid trying to reattach it on your own with glue or over-the-counter adhesives, as this could cause further issues.
2. Examine the Veneer and Your Tooth
Carefully inspect the veneer to check for cracks or chips. Also, look at the exposed tooth to see if any rough or sharp edges could cause discomfort or injury to your tongue and cheeks.
3. Call Your Dentist Immediately
Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. At Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry in Gilbert, AZ , we offer emergency dental care for situations like this. The sooner you reach out, the better the chances of successfully reattaching the veneer.
4. Protect Your Tooth Until Your Appointment
Without the veneer, your tooth may be more sensitive to hot or cold foods. To protect it:
- Avoid very hot, cold, or hard foods that could cause discomfort.
- If the tooth feels sharp, apply dental wax (available at most drugstores) to prevent irritation.
- Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle while brushing the exposed area.
5. Do Not Attempt DIY Fixes
It might be tempting to glue the veneer back on using household adhesives, but this can lead to permanent damage and make professional reattachment impossible. Let a dental professional handle the repair properly.
6. Understand the Possible Fixes
Your dentist will evaluate whether the veneer can be reattached or if you need a replacement. If the veneer is still in good condition and your tooth structure is intact, your dentist may be able to bond it back in place. If it’s damaged, a new veneer will be necessary.
7. Prevent Future Veneer Issues
To reduce the risk of your veneers falling off in the future, follow these preventive steps:
- Avoid biting into very hard foods or objects (e.g., ice, pens, fingernails).
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Maintain regular dental checkups to ensure your veneers are secure.
What to Expect from Your Dentist?
When you visit your dentist after a veneer falls off, they will first determine the cause to prevent the issue from recurring. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Diagnosing Bruxism
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can weaken veneers over time. If your dentist identifies this as the cause, they may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your veneers and underlying teeth from excessive pressure.
2. Reviewing Your Diet
Certain foods can compromise veneers. Your dentist may advise avoiding sticky, chewy, or hard foods that put excessive stress on veneers and natural teeth.
3. Treating Underlying Decay
If tooth decay is present, it must be treated before reattaching or replacing the veneer. Decay can erode the enamel, making it difficult for the veneer to bond securely. If the damage is too severe, alternative restoration options may be necessary.
4. Reattaching or Replacing the Veneer
Once your dentist confirms that your tooth is stable, they will check if the existing veneer fits. If it’s still intact, they will thoroughly clean it and bond it back in place. If the veneer is damaged, they will take impressions to create a new one that matches your natural teeth.
AZ Dentistry: Your Go-To Dental Experts in Gilbert, AZ
If your dental veneer has fallen off, don’t panic—help is just a call away. At AZ Dentistry, we provide expert veneer repairs and replacements to restore your smile quickly and effectively. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get back to smiling with confidence!
Conclusion
Dental veneers are reasonably durable but may be vulnerable to pressure from daily habits that cause them to come off. Losing a veneer is not considered an emergency, but failing to see your dentist as soon as possible for evaluation or replacement could permanently damage your tooth. Therefore, individuals who opt for veneers should consult a dentist about an appropriate home care routine to protect their veneers and promote general oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if my veneer falls off?
If your veneer falls off, place it in a clean, sealable container to keep it safe. Avoid trying to reattach it yourself, and contact your dentist as soon as possible for a professional evaluation and reattachment or replacement. In the meantime, you can use dental wax to cover any sharp edges and protect your tooth.
2. Can I stick my veneer back on myself?
No, attempting to glue your veneer back on yourself can do more harm than good. Household adhesives are not suitable for dental bonding and may damage your tooth or the veneer. Always seek professional dental care for reattachment.
3. Can a dentist reattach my veneer?
In some cases, if the veneer is still in good condition, a dentist can clean and reattach it. However, if the veneer is cracked, chipped, or damaged beyond repair, a new one may need to be made.
4. Is losing a veneer an emergency?
Losing a veneer is not considered a dental emergency, but you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can expose your tooth to damage or sensitivity, so it’s best to address the issue promptly.