A common question we get at the Bespoke Smile practice is whether veneers can break. So, let’s explore the topic of broken veneers, their causes, what to do if your veneer breaks, and essential tips for preventing such incidents.
Can veneers break?
Just like natural teeth, veneers can break or chip. Although veneers are durable and strong, they are not indestructible. Veneers are made of thin layers of porcelain or composite resin, which are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. They are designed to withstand normal biting and chewing forces, but they can still be damaged by excessive force or trauma. However, it’s important to note that veneers breaking is relatively uncommon!
It is important to pick the correct dentist to design your veneers, as they will have a good understanding of your bite and chewing pattern, which will allow them to identify any risks that could cause damage to your veneers. They can consider these things when designing your veneers to eliminate or minimise the risk of you breaking a veneer.
What causes broken veneers?
There are several factors that can contribute to broken veneers. Accidental trauma, such as a fall or impact to the face, may cause a veneer to chip or crack. Biting into hard or crunchy foods, like ice or nuts, can also use excessive force on veneers, leading to fractures. Additionally, poor oral habits such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or using teeth as tools can weaken the veneers over time, increasing the risk of breakage.
Factors that cause veneers to break:
- Biting on hard objects
- Trauma to the face or mouth
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Weakening of the bond between the veneer and the tooth due to decay or other dental issues
- Age and wear and tear over time
How to prevent veneers from breaking?
While accidents can happen, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk of broken veneers and keep your smile intact. Here are some helpful tips:
Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss daily to keep your gums and teeth healthy, which will support the stability of your veneers.
Protect your teeth during physical activities: If you participate in sports or activities that carry a risk of dental injury, wear a mouthguard. Custom-made mouthguards from your dentist offer the best protection for your teeth and veneers!
Avoid bad oral habits: If you grind your teeth, discuss it with your dentist, who may recommend a night guard to protect your veneers. Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite into hard objects.
Choose your diet wisely: Minimise or avoid chewing on hard foods like ice, hard candy, and popcorn kernels. Cut them into smaller pieces or choose softer alternatives to reduce the stress on your veneers.
Regular dental check-ups: Maintain a consistent schedule of dental check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will assess the condition of your veneers and detect any early signs of weakness or damage.
What to do if my veneer breaks?
If a veneer breaks or chips, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to have it repaired or replaced. In some cases, a broken veneer can be fixed by smoothing out the chip or filling in the missing piece with composite resin. However, the entire veneer may need to be replaced if the damage is extensive. Ultimately, a veneer needs to be treated and looked after like a natural tooth once it is applied!
Veneers from Bespoke Smile
It is extremely important when designing veneers that the practitioner is making sure that not only do the veneers look correct, but that they have also considered the bite. The main cause for a veneer breaking is due to bite-related complications.
At Bespoke Smile we use Dr Sam Jethwa’s hand-made Trial Smile method to reduce any risks to do with the aesthetics and the bite. We’ll fit temporary veneers that you can test for a week or two, to be 100% sure you’re happy with your new smile. When living with your temporary veneers, you’ll be able to get used to the look and feel of your new veneers, and will allow us to assess the shapes, symmetry and angles to create a bespoke design that compliments your face. We’ll also test the bite to be sure your new veneers last!
While veneers are generally resilient, there is a possibility they may break under certain circumstances. Accidental trauma, improper oral habits, and biting into hard objects are common causes of broken veneers. If you experience a broken veneer, get in touch with our team for professional advice and treatment.
If you have any concerns about your veneers or would like to explore your cosmetic dentistry options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
