Dental veneers are strong and durable, but like natural teeth, they can crack under pressure or trauma. Whether its from biting something hard, facial injury, or clenching, a cracked veneer can cause discomfort, affect appearance, and leave the underlying tooth vulnerable. While a cracked veneer isnt always a full dental emergency, quick action is essential to prevent further damage or complications.
This blog outlines what to do immediately when a veneer cracks, how to protect the tooth, and when to seek emergency care from trusted providers like McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough.
What Causes Veneers to Crack?
Veneers can crack or chip due to:
Biting on hard items (ice, pens, hard candy)
Facial trauma or impact injuries
Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night
Weak bonding or aging veneers
Sudden temperature changes in the mouth (e.g., hot drink followed by cold food)
Porcelain veneers, while highly aesthetic and strong, can still fracture under extreme stress. Composite veneers, though slightly more flexible, are also more prone to surface damage over time.
First Aid Steps for a Cracked Veneer
1. Rinse Gently
Use warm water to rinse your mouth and remove any debris. This helps clean the area, reduce the risk of irritation, and prepare the site for inspection.
2. Save Any Broken Pieces
If any part of the veneer has detached, store it in a clean container. Bring it with you to the dental clinicdepending on the crack and condition, reattachment might be possible.
3. Protect the Exposed Tooth Surface
If the veneer has cracked severely or fallen off, the underlying tooth may be exposed and sensitive. Cover it temporarily with:
A small piece of orthodontic wax (available at pharmacies)
Sugarless gum (as a last resort)
This creates a barrier against temperature changes, air, and food particles.
4. Avoid Eating on the Affected Side
Stick to soft foods and avoid hot, cold, or crunchy items. Do not chew gum or put pressure on the cracked area. Continue regular oral hygiene but brush gently around the veneer.
5. Use Pain Relief if Needed
If theres sensitivity or pain, take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or tooth.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Not every cracked veneer requires immediate treatment, but urgent care is needed if:
The veneer has completely fallen off
The underlying tooth is sensitive or painful
There are sharp edges irritating the tongue or inner cheeks
The veneer is visibly cracked and affecting appearance before a major event or work obligation
Theres swelling, bleeding, or signs of trauma to surrounding tissue
Call McLevin Dental Clinic promptly for an emergency evaluation. Early treatment can often prevent more extensive procedures like full veneer replacement or additional tooth restoration.
What Not to Do
Dont use super glue or adhesives to reattach the veneer yourself. This can damage the tooth surface and make professional bonding more difficult.
Dont continue eating as normaleven if pain is minimal, chewing can worsen the crack.
Dont skip follow-up just because the veneer is still partially attached. Internal fractures can grow or compromise the bond.
How Dentists Handle Cracked Veneers
At McLevin Dental Clinic, treatment depends on the type and extent of the crack:
Minor Surface Crack
Polishing or reshaping the veneer to smooth out rough spots
Application of dental resin to seal superficial cracks
Partial Fracture
Removal of the damaged veneer
Fabrication of a new veneer for replacement
Temporary bonding solution while waiting for the new veneer
Complete Detachment
Rebonding if the veneer and tooth structure are intact
Full replacement if the veneer is too damaged or the underlying tooth has changed
If bruxism caused the damage, a custom nightguard may be recommended to protect veneers and natural teeth.
Preventing Veneer Damage in the Future
Avoid hard foods and non-food items: Do not bite ice, pens, or open packages with your teeth.
Use a nightguard: If you grind your teeth, especially at night, a protective guard is essential.
Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or high-risk activities.
Maintain regular dental checkups to monitor veneer condition and bite alignment.
Practice good oral hygiene to keep gums and teeth healthy underneath and around veneers.
Conclusion
A cracked veneer can be alarming, especially when it affects your smile or causes sensitivity. Taking immediate steps to protect the area and reaching out to a qualified dental provider can make a major difference in your outcome.