Porcelain dental veneers can stand up to a lot of strain. They have to be able to; biting and chewing exert a great deal of pressure on your teeth. But they aren't indestructible. Whether it's because you've been chewing on ice or your veneers are simply old and nearing the end of their lifespans, broken veneers happen.

But before you throw out the piece of porcelain that came off your tooth, check whether your veneer is actually broken at all – or whether it may simply be debonded.

Is It Broken Or Debonded?

If the veneer has come off but is still whole, this is called debonding – the bond between the veneer and your tooth has broken down. If the veneer is still attached to your tooth and cracked or if a portion of the veneer has come off, then it's thoroughly broken; you'll need to call your dentist and have a new veneer placed on your tooth.

What To Do If Your Veneer Is Debonded

The good news about debonding is that it's quite possible that you won't need a new veneer. Since it's the bonding that's broken down, your dentist may be able to take your old veneer and reattach it. This will save you the cost of getting a new veneer, and it will also save you from needing to wait for a new veneer to be crafted.

This means that there are two things you need to do: call your dentist to set up an appointment as soon as possible, and find a safe place to store your veneer in the meantime. If your dentist's office is closed, you can wait until the next business day to call; a debonded veneer isn't a dental emergency. To store your veneer, simply wrap it in a tissue and place it in a hard container like a small pill bottle to protect it.

What To Expect While You Wait For An Appointment

Hopefully, you'll be able to get in to see your dentist quickly; however, since your veneer isn't an emergency, it may take a few days. It's a good idea to avoid very hot or cold foods while waiting for your appointment – many people find that their tooth is sensitive after a veneer debonds.

You may also find that the interior of your lip is irritated by the rough surface of the tooth. If this is the case, you can solve it with the same dental wax that people with braces use to protect their mouth from brackets and wires. Just take a small amount and flatten it over the rough tooth. For more information about what to do for a broken or debonded veneer, contact a company like Belgrade Dental Associates.

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