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When it comes to smile enhancement, veneers are widely popular for their impressive results and incredible versatility. They can completely transform a compromised set of teeth into a radiant, dazzling smile. However, they’re not perfect; even though they can last for up to 20 years with proper care, sometimes they sustain damage to the point of needing to be replaced. Here are 4 obvious signs that it might be time to have your veneers swapped out.
1. A Veneer Is Fractured or Has Worn Edges
Daily wear-and-tear, including chewing, can affect your veneers the same way it can affect your teeth. Your veneers can sometimes become chipped or fractured despite the strength of the material it’s composed of. As time passes, the edges of your veneers can also become worn down and cause small chips and cracks to form. You should contact your dentist if you notice any of these flaws in your veneers, so they can be replaced before becoming completely broken.
2. There Are Gaps Between Your Veneers and Your Gums/Teeth
Your veneers require the same amount of daily upkeep as your natural teeth, meaning that if you neglect your oral hygiene, you’re jeopardizing both your teeth and veneers! If your gumline begins to recede, this can create noticeable gaps between your veneer and your gums. This can also lead to tooth decay in the underlying tooth. If you notice any gaps around your veneers, contact your dentist—even small gaps pose a threat!
3. Your Veneers Look Darker
Veneers are attached to your teeth using a special dental adhesive, and this material naturally darkens in color over time. Most people incorrectly assume that this is the tooth or actual veneer darkening, but this isn’t the case. However, this adhesive material cannot be lightened, meaning that the only way to remedy this problem is by having the entire veneer replaced.
Your veneers can also become stained if you frequently eat and drink consumables with staining agents (things like coffee, tea, red wine, soda, berries, etc.). Even though the porcelain that your veneers are composed of is durable, it is not stain-proof. Once your veneers have been stained, they’ll need to be replaced—they cannot be easily whitened like your tooth enamel.
4. A Veneer Has Fallen Off
Sometimes, your veneers can simply fall off—the adhesive material used to bond them to your teeth can weaken over time and become ineffective. It’s important to note that this is not something you can deal with on your own; contact your dentist immediately so they can properly replace your veneer. Even if the veneer is becoming loose and hasn’t fallen off yet, it will need to be addressed promptly.
Veneers are an important part of you; by taking good care of them and replacing them, if necessary, you’re ensuring that your smile remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez brings over 20 years of experience to her practice in the New York City area! Dr. Sanchez attended dental school in the Dominican Republic before eventually completing her AEGD at the Columbia School of Dental Medicine, and she is a proud member of both the New York Dental Association and the American Dental Association. If you have any questions about veneers or would like to schedule an appointment to have yours replaced, feel free to contact Dr. Sanchez through her website or by phone: (646) 669-7407.