Imagine that you’re at the movie theatre, munching on some popcorn and having a good time. All of a sudden, you feel a crunch that puts your teeth on edge as you bite into an unpopped kernel. Then you realize that your veneer is missing! Losing one of your dental veneers is an unsettling thought for sure, but if you know what to do, you can stay calm and take action.
If you want to learn what to do if one of your dental veneers falls off, continue reading.
Immediate Actions When You Lose Your Veneer
Here’s what to do right after your veneer falls out:
Find the Shell
If your veneer falls off, try to locate and retrieve it. Handle it carefully, holding it by the edges to avoid any damage. If you have a tissue or a small container, put the shell in it for safekeeping.
Examine Your Tooth
Inspect the underlying tooth for any debris or adhesive material. Gently clean the tooth surface with a soft toothbrush, being cautious not to cause any more damage.
Call Your Dentist
Once you have the situation under control, call your dentist to schedule an appointment. While a lost veneer isn’t typically an emergency, your dentist may make an exception if your tooth was damaged.
What To Do While You Wait for Your Appointment
Here are some strategies you can try while you wait for your dentist to reattach your veneer:
Use Dental Wax
Applying a small amount of dental wax to the surface of your tooth can help reduce sensitivity while you wait to see your dentist. Use a thin layer to insolate the shaved enamel.
Over-the-Counter Dental Adhesive
Talk to your dentist before attempting to reattach a veneer yourself. If they give you the go-ahead, you can use dental adhesive as a temporary measure. Just make sure that you don’t use the tooth to bite or chew until after your appointment.
What Happens at Your Appointment?
During your dental appointment, your dentist will assess the condition of the veneer, your tooth, and the underlying adhesive. They will then determine whether the veneer can be reattached or if a replacement is necessary.
Remember to communicate openly with your dentist about the incident during your appointment. They can offer advice on avoiding events like that in the future. If all goes well, you’ll walk out of the office with your smile intact!
The experience of a fallen veneer can be unnerving, but swift and collected action can resolve the issue in no time. By following this quick guide and seeking help, you can ensure that your veneer is reattached or replaced. Be sure to thank your dentist after the appointment and be more careful with your veneers in the future.
About the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam is a friendly and talented dentist who believes in the power of a great smile. He earned his dental doctorate at Temple University in Philadelphia and has since then continued to expand his skill set. If you want to achieve the best smile of your life through cosmetic and restorative treatments, you’re in great hands. Dr. Lam uses ultramodern technology to provide exceptional results. Call (206) 589-8556 to schedule a dental veneer consultation at Seahurst Smiles of Burien or visit the website to discover other services.