Do you have aesthetic flaws in your teeth that make you feel self-conscious about the condition of your grin? If you’re concerned others might judge issues like chips, cracks, or stains, you might benefit from cosmetic dental treatments, such as placing veneers.
These thin ceramic shells are customized to match your enamel and then are cemented to the fronts of your teeth to enhance your appearance. They often last 20+ years when properly maintained, but if you’re not careful, you might damage or dislodge them. Read on to learn why this sometimes happens and what to do about it!
Is a Lost Veneer a Dental Emergency?
Many people consider veneers a ‘permanent’ solution because they’re not intended to be removed once they’re cemented in place. Furthermore, placing them requires thinning a small amount of enamel to fit correctly, which is indeed an irreversible change, because this protective outer layer doesn’t grow back.
Any change in the structure of your teeth increases the risk of potential problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or physical injuries. That means that while it’s not always considered an emergency when one of these restorations is lost, it’s better to contact your dentist to replace it sooner rather than later to avoid oral issues.
Why Did My Veneer Fall Off?
These porcelain covers often remain in good shape for decades if cared for correctly, but there’s no guarantee that you’ll never lose one. There are several potential reasons one might become destabilized or dislodged, including:
- Poor oral hygiene. If the underlying teeth develop disease or decay, your restorations could fail.
- They weren’t bonded correctly. They might fall off if they weren’t well-positioned or cemented properly.
- Its age. These covers don’t usually last forever and can eventually wear down or separate from your enamel.
How Should I Handle My Lost Veneer?
It’s natural to feel concerned if you’ve just realized one of your veneers is missing, but rest assured, you’re not the first patient to ever lose one. Depending on what happened, your dentist might be able to recement your restoration back in its place, so it can be helpful to find it, rinse it gently, and store it in a safe place to bring to your appointment.
Then, you should call your dentist to let them know what happened. They will schedule an appropriate time to see you and might provide additional care instructions over the phone, like avoiding biting anything with the uncovered tooth, for you to follow until you arrive.
Once your provider has examined your condition, they can determine whether the dislodged veneer can be repurposed or requires replacement.
About the Practice
Patients at Complete Dental Care benefit from two dedicated providers who share decades of combined experience helping people build and maintain healthy, happy smiles. Dr. Kostas and Dr. Pereira collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including veneers, conveniently under one roof. They also offer early and evening appointments on so it’s easier to get help quickly if you’re experiencing an unexpected issue, such as a dislodged restoration. You can request an appointment on the website or call (781) 272-0441.
