Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain or composite resin designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are a popular cosmetic dental treatment used to correct issues like discoloration, minor misalignment, or chipping. While these restorations are strongly bonded to the tooth structure, providing a long-lasting aesthetic solution, the possibility of detachment, often called debonding, can cause concern. Understanding the factors involved helps manage expectations and maintain the smile’s integrity.
How Often Do Veneers Detach
Modern dental bonding techniques make the detachment of veneers a generally rare occurrence. Studies suggest that the risk of a veneer completely debonding is low, often reported as less than two percent over a ten-year period when the procedure is performed meticulously. The goal is a durable, long-term attachment, but the materials and the bond are not immune to the stresses of daily use.
A veneer that has “fallen out” is a debonding event where the shell separates from the tooth. The longevity of these restorations is generally quite good, with porcelain veneers often lasting between ten and fifteen years. Composite resin veneers typically have a shorter lifespan, usually requiring replacement after five to seven years of use.
Common Causes for Veneer Failure
The failure of the adhesive bond between the restoration and the tooth surface is the primary mechanism for a veneer coming loose. This failure can be attributed to multiple factors, including contamination during the cementation process, such as saliva or blood, which compromises the resin’s strength. Inadequate preparation of the tooth surface or using substandard adhesive materials also predisposes the veneer to premature debonding.
The natural tooth beneath the veneer remains susceptible to decay. If bacteria infiltrate the margins where the veneer meets the tooth, the resulting cavity can undermine the bond. This structural compromise causes the veneer to lose support and eventually detach.
Physical forces also play a large role in detachment, particularly sudden, high-impact trauma from accidents or biting down on extremely hard objects like ice or hard candy. Parafunctional habits, such as chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), exert excessive and repeated pressure on the restorations, gradually weakening the adhesive. A bite that is not properly adjusted can also lead to uneven force distribution, placing undue stress on specific veneers.
Immediate Steps When a Veneer Comes Off
If a veneer detaches, the first step is to remain calm and carefully retrieve the restoration, if possible, and place it in a safe container. The underlying tooth surface, which has been slightly prepared, may feel sensitive to temperature changes or appear rougher. Keep the exposed tooth clean by rinsing gently with warm water and maintaining a careful oral hygiene routine.
Contacting the dental office immediately is the next necessary action to schedule an appointment for re-bonding or replacement. The dentist will assess whether the original veneer is intact enough to be reattached or if a new one must be fabricated. Do not attempt to reattach the veneer using household adhesives like superglue, as these materials are toxic, can damage the tooth and the veneer, and will interfere with the professional bonding process.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Veneers
Proactive daily care and lifestyle modifications are fundamental in maximizing the lifespan of your veneers and preventing detachment. It is advisable to avoid biting directly into overly hard foods, such as nuts or ice, or tough, sticky foods that could shear the bond. Avoid using teeth to open packages, bite fingernails, or hold objects, as these actions place unnecessary leverage on the restorations. For individuals who clench or grind their teeth, wearing a custom-fitted nightguard during sleep is highly recommended to absorb the occlusal forces.
Daily oral hygiene practices should include using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching the veneer surface. Maintaining a schedule of regular dental check-ups allows the dentist to monitor the health of the underlying teeth and the integrity of the veneer margins, addressing any issues before they lead to failure.