Dental veneers, known for their ability to dramatically enhance smiles, are a popular choice for those looking to improve their dental aesthetics. But a question often lingers in the minds of those who have them or are considering getting them: can veneers break?
At NYC Smile Design, we have extensive experience not only in applying veneers but also in educating our patients on how to prevent damage to them. We also specialize in repairing or replacing veneers in the rare instances that they do break.
This blog will delve into the durability of dental veneers, examine common causes of breakage, and provide practical steps to protect your veneers and maintain your beautiful smile.
Understanding Dental Veneers
Before discussing their durability, let’s briefly define what dental veneers are. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of your teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of your smile, addressing issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps, or misshapen teeth.
The Durability of Veneers
Dental veneers are known for their strength and resilience. Porcelain veneers, in particular, are highly durable and can last many years with proper care. They are made to withstand the everyday functions of your teeth, like biting and chewing. However, just like natural teeth, they are not invincible and can be damaged or broken due to various factors.
Common Causes of Veneer Breakage
While veneers are designed for durability, they aren’t invincible. Several factors can contribute to their breakage, and understanding these can help you take steps to protect them.
Physical Impact
Incidents like sports injuries or accidents that involve a strong impact to the face or mouth can pose a significant risk to your veneers. Such forceful impacts can lead to chipping or breaking of the veneer, especially if the impact is direct.
Hard Foods
The habit of biting down on hard foods such as candies, ice, or nuts can be detrimental to your veneers. These hard substances can exert excessive pressure on veneers, potentially causing them to crack or chip. It’s important to be mindful of the hardness of the foods you eat and to avoid using your veneered teeth to bite into these tough items.
Teeth Grinding
For individuals who grind their teeth, a condition known as bruxism, there’s an increased risk of damaging veneers. The constant grinding puts extra pressure on the veneers, which over time, can lead to wear and tear or even breakage. This is a concern particularly during sleep when grinding is often involuntary and unnoticed.
Improper Care
Lastly, the way you care for your veneers plays a crucial role in their longevity. Neglecting good oral hygiene practices can lead to issues that may compromise the integrity of the veneers. Additionally, using your teeth as tools – like opening packages or bottle caps – can be harmful. Such actions can exert unusual stress on your veneers, increasing the risk of damage. Regular dental care, including brushing and flossing, and treating your veneers with the same care as you would your natural teeth, is essential in maintaining their condition and preventing breakage.
Protecting Your Veneers
Ensuring the longevity of your dental veneers involves adopting certain protective measures. Here are some key practices that can help safeguard your veneers:
Wear Protection
For those actively participating in sports or experiencing nocturnal teeth grinding, wearing a mouthguard is a practical step. A mouthguard can act as a barrier, absorbing and distributing the force that might otherwise directly impact your veneers during physical activities or while grinding your teeth in your sleep.
Avoid Hard Foods
Being mindful about what you eat is important when you have veneers. Hard foods can pose a risk, so it’s advisable to be cautious when consuming them. If you do choose to eat hard foods, using your back teeth for biting can help prevent putting undue pressure on your veneered front teeth, reducing the risk of chipping or cracking them. This simple adjustment in your eating habits can significantly extend the life of your veneers.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is vital for veneer maintenance. Regular brushing and flossing help keep both your natural teeth and veneers in top condition. When brushing, it’s recommended to use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the surface of the veneers. Gentle but thorough cleaning is key to preserving their appearance and preventing potential problems like gum disease or tooth decay, which can affect the foundation of your veneers.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Lastly, consistent visits to your dentist are essential for maintaining your veneers. These check-ups allow your dentist to closely monitor the condition of your veneers and promptly address any emerging issues. Routine professional cleanings and examinations help in identifying and tackling any potential problems early on, ensuring that your veneers remain in the best possible shape for years to come.
What To Do If a Veneer Breaks
Despite taking precautions, if you find that your veneer has chipped or broken, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action, which might include repairing or replacing the veneer. It’s essential not to delay this, as a broken veneer can affect not only your smile’s appearance but also your oral health.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Your Smile’s Health
Dental veneers are a strong, durable option for enhancing your smile, but they require care and attention to maintain their integrity and appearance. Being aware of the potential risks and taking steps to protect your veneers can help ensure they last as long as possible. If you’re considering veneers or already have them, remember that regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices play a crucial role in the longevity of your smile transformation.
At NYC Smile Design, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. Whether you need advice on caring for your veneers or are seeking a solution for a damaged veneer, our team is here to provide the expertise and care you need. To explore your veneer options or to schedule a consultation, we invite you to contact us at NYC Smile Design and take the first step towards a dazzling smile.
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