While veneers are designed to be durable and long-lasting, they can still break in certain circumstances. It is important to understand that veneers are not as strong as natural teeth and their lifespan can vary depending on various factors. So, you should always take proper care of your veneers to prevent any damage and prolong their lifespan.
Moreover, a broken veneer should be addressed promptly, as it can affect both the appearance and function of your smile. In most cases, a damaged veneer can be repaired or replaced by your dentist. However, prevention is always better than a cure and there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of your veneers breaking.
Let us look into the most common causes of veneers to break:
- Improper design or placement
If your veneers are not properly designed or placed, they can be more vulnerable to breaking. So, it is important to choose a skilled and experienced dentist who uses high-quality materials when getting veneers.
- Persistent grinding of teeth
Grinding or clenching your teeth, also known as bruxism, can put a lot of pressure on your veneers and cause them to break. If you have this habit, your dentist may recommend wearing a night guard to protect your veneers while you sleep.
- Biting hard foods on a regular basis
Veneers are not designed to withstand excessive force. So, biting on hard foods such as ice and bones or opening packages with your teeth can cause them to break. It is important to avoid using your veneers as tools and instead use appropriate utensils for eating and opening things.
- Sudden blow or impact to the face
Accidents happen and a sudden blow or impact to the face can cause your veneers to chip or break. If you engage in contact sports, it is important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and veneers.
- Tooth decay behind the veneer
If there is tooth decay present behind your veneer, it can weaken the bond between the veneer and your natural tooth. This can lead to a break or detachment of the veneer. It is important to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to prevent cavities from forming.
- Debonding
In rare cases, a veneer can become debonded or come off completely. This can happen if the bond between the veneer and tooth is not strong enough or when the adhesive is damaged. If this happens, it is important to contact your dentist immediately for a repair or replacement.
