Chipped Or Damaged Your Veneer? Here’s What To Do

A chipped or cracked veneer won’t usually fix itself, and leaving it can make things worse. Book an appointment as soon as possible so we can assess it and work out the best repair option. The best advice for a damaged veneer is not to panic, but not to ignore it either.

What usually causes a chipped or damaged veneer

Veneers are strong, but everyday things like biting into something hard – shellfish, corn on the cob, ice, a knock during sport, or teeth grinding – can chip or crack them. It’s rarely about anything you did wrong; it’s simply the kind of everyday wear any dental restoration can experience.

Is it urgent?

A chipped veneer usually isn’t a same-day emergency unless you’re in pain, have a sharp edge cutting your cheek or tongue, or the veneer has come away completely. In those cases, contact us straight away. Otherwise, it’s still worth booking promptly rather than waiting for your next routine check-up.

What to do right now

Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth where possible. If there’s a sharp edge, dental wax from most pharmacies can protect your cheek or tongue until your appointment. Don’t try to repair it yourself with any home fix.

What might my repair options look like?

Depending on how the veneer is damaged, repair can range from smoothing and polishing a small chip through to replacing the veneer entirely. We’ll only know the right option once we’ve had a look, so it’s best not to assume the worst before your appointment.

Booking your repair appointment

If you’ve noticed any damage to a veneer, get in touch so we can take a look and advise the best next step.

FAQs

Can a chipped veneer be repaired, or does it need replacing? 

It depends on the extent of the damage. A small chip can often be smoothed or repaired, while more significant damage may need a replacement veneer.

Is a chipped veneer a dental emergency? 

Not usually, unless you’re in pain or there’s a sharp edge causing irritation, in which case contact us straight away.

How long do veneers typically last before something like this happens? 

This varies by patient and habits; read more on veneer longevity here.

Noticed a chip or crack in a veneer? Book an appointment so we can take a look, or read more about our composite veneers.