Dental veneers are one of the most powerful tools in cosmetic dentistry. They can do so much, but they aren’t impervious to damage. Veneers can easily last more than ten years with appropriate care, but it is possible for them to break. So, can veneers break and how?

Can Veneers Break?

Fortunately, broken veneers aren’t common. As long as they’re properly fitted and properly cared for you usually won’t have any issues. With that said, there are specific circumstances that make damage more likely. The good news is that they’re almost entirely avoidable.

Persistent Grinding

If your natural teeth show signs of consistent grinding, your dentist may suggest an alternative to dental veneers. Grinding your teeth is one of the worst things you can do with veneers, and you could see damage very soon.

For patients who are determined to have the full benefits of veneers, you may be able to work with your cosmetic dentist in Bloomington to find a solution. Customized mouth guards can be fitted to you for nightwear. These will prevent you from grinding your teeth while you sleep, one of the most common issues.

Decay to the Natural Tooth

Dental veneers do not replace the natural tooth. They simply cover it. That’s why it is so important to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist every six months is great for the health of your teeth and the longevity of your veneers.

When tooth decay is given the chance to develop, it can weaken the bond between your tooth and the veneer. Normal activities like chewing a tough food could lead to breakage if the bond is undermined.

Facial Trauma

You probably don’t get hit in the face a lot. However, you should know that facial trauma may cause a dental veneer to break. An accidental backhand or a bad bicycle crash could easily be too much for those super slim porcelain shells.

While you can’t always protect your teeth from sudden trauma, you can provide increased protection. Talk to your dentist about getting a customized mouth guard if you’re a more active person.

Customized mouth guards can be comfortably worn during team sports and other vigorous exercise, protecting your veneers and the rest of your mouth from serious harm.

Biting Down on Very Hard Items

Your natural teeth are not designed to chew ice or break hard candy in half. These actions can actually cause microfractures in your teeth that will lead to more visible damage over the years.

Your dental veneers are also not designed to withstand that kind of pressure. The only difference is that you’re more likely to see noticeable breaks because your veneers are not solid like your natural teeth.

Improper Fit

Your dentist will check and double-check your porcelain veneers in Bloomington to make sure they look as perfect as possible. When you do the fit check prior to permanent bonding, it is really important for you to speak up.

If anything feels even slightly off, let your dentist know. Dental veneers that don’t fit properly are far more likely to sustain damage early. The fit appointment may seem tedious, but it’s necessary to make sure you get the results you want.

Fixing a Broken Veneer

If one of your veneers breaks, then call your dentist immediately. Ideally, you want to be in their office within 48 hours if possible. At your appointment, your dentist will examine the damage and provide you with possible solutions.

Patients with composite veneers may be able to have a simple repair depending on the extent of the damage. Broken porcelain veneers will have to be remade. While you wait, you may receive a temporary veneer to cover the natural tooth.