What To Do When a Veneer Breaks or Chips

What Should You Do If You Break a Veneer?

Veneers are among the best options for improving the aesthetics of one’s smile. Unlike dental implants, they can be placed over existing teeth and do not cost as much. Although traditional veneers require drastic and permanent altering of tooth structure, many new veneers do not. These are excellent options for patients with generally healthy teeth and minor cosmetic issues. The added benefit of veneers is their longevity. Most will last ten years or more, with some remaining intact for up to 20 years. Still, there will eventually come a day when your veneers need replacing. In some cases, you may even inadvertently break or chip a veneer. When this happens, they will need repairing.

If a veneer breaks or chips, you must contact your dentist immediately. The veneer may need to be repaired or replaced to prevent further damage to the tooth or the veneer itself. Your dentist will examine the veneer and the tooth to determine the best action.

If the veneer is only slightly chipped, your dentist may be able to smooth out the rough edges or use dental bonding to repair the damage. If the veneer is badly damaged or has come off, it may need to be replaced. Sometimes, the tooth may need to be prepared again before a new veneer can be placed.

Following good oral hygiene practices is essential to prevent damage to your veneers. This includes brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the veneers. Regular dental checkups are also essential to ensure that your veneers are in good condition and to address any problems that may arise.

Veneer Tooth Repair

Although veneers often break or chip without warning, you may be able to notice some signs of wear before they break entirely. If you feel sensitivity in any of your teeth, this may signify a small, perhaps even unnoticeable, fracture in the veneer. If a tooth is painful, bacteria may have penetrated the crack in the veneer and infected the underlying tooth. The best course of action is to see your dentist for an examination.

Other signs of wear may be more noticeable. Some cracks or fissures may be visible in the mirror with the correct light. If you notice any odd-looking lines or discoloration, notify your dentist. He or she will be able to determine if the structure of your veneers is at risk. If you feel that a veneer has become loose or can move it with your finger, be very careful until you can see your dentist. As long as the veneer is not broken, it must be re-bonded.

How do dentists fix a chipped veneer tooth?

Depending on the issue with your veneers, several options exist for repairing them. The process is quick and painless if all that is required is a simple re-bonding. It is also relatively cheap since it requires little work on the dentist’s part. For cracked veneers, chances are they will need to be replaced entirely.

Tooth Chip Repair Cost

The cost of repairing a chipped tooth can vary depending on several factors, such as the chip’s severity, the tooth’s location, and the type of treatment required.

For minor chips, the cost can range from $100 to $250 per tooth. This typically involves dental bonding, a process where a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the chipped area and hardened with a special light.

For more severe chips, such as when a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a crown or veneer may be necessary. A crown or veneer can range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth.

It’s important to note that these are rough estimates, and costs can vary depending on your location and your specific dental practice. It’s best to consult your dentist to get an accurate estimate of the cost of repairing a chipped tooth.

Chipped Veneer Tooth Repair Cost

The cost of repairing a chipped veneer tooth can vary depending on several factors, including the damage’s severity, location, the type of veneer material, and the dentist’s expertise. Repairing a chipped veneer tooth can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. It’s important to note that if the damage is significant, the veneer may need to be replaced entirely, which can add to the overall cost.

This is because a new veneer will have to be made, which involves taking impressions and sending them to a dental laboratory. If a veneer is chipped, your dentist may be able to repair it by filling in the space with composite material. Although quick and generally inexpensive, this is not a durable option as composite is prone to breaking, particularly on surfaces involved in chewing.

The best way to determine the cost of repairing a chipped veneer tooth is to consult a dentist. They will be able to assess the damage and provide a treatment plan that includes a cost estimate. It’s also worth noting that some dental insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost of repairing a chipped veneer tooth, depending on the specific plan and coverage.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

The lifespan of veneers depends on various factors, including the quality of the material used, the dentist’s skill, and how well the patient takes care of them. In general, porcelain veneers can last between 10 and 15 years, while composite resin veneers typically last between 5 and 7 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, veneers can last even longer. It’s essential to follow good oral hygiene practices, avoid biting on hard objects, and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure the longevity of your veneers.

If you grind or clench your teeth, they will likely need replacing or repairing sooner. Your dentist can address these issues and help you determine the type of veneer that is best for you. No matter the case, veneers are an excellent option for keeping your smile bright and healthy for many years.