Emergency Cosmetic Dentistry for Dislodged Veneers
When accidents happen, people in Philadelphia and Doylestown, PA can count on Dr. Bruce Wilderman for emergency dentistry services. The entire team at Artistic Expressions Dentistry is committed to helping people in Bucks County experience healthy, beautiful smiles for years to come.
If you have porcelain veneers, there is a very low risk of them becoming dislodged from a tooth. If that happens, it’s important to consider an emergency visit for treatment. Below is some basic information about emergency dental visits for dislodged veneers.
The Durability of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are extremely durable and are unlikely to become dislodged from normal biting and chewing. They are securely adhered in place, which means a good overall hold and stability.
That said, it is possible to have a porcelain veneer knocked out, much like it’s possible for people to lose a crown or a filling. This is why it’s important to consider mouth and face protection when it comes to veneers.
How Porcelain Veneers Get Knocked Out
Some common reasons for porcelain veneers getting knocked out include:
- Sports injuries
- Vehicle accidents
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Accidents while eating
- Work injuries
- Physical altercations/assaults
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
These are all the same sorts of issues that can cause a crown or filling to become dislodged, or for teeth to become damaged.
Can a Porcelain Veneer Be Saved?
Yes.
If you visit a dentist soon after a porcelain veneer has become dislodged, it is possible to reapply the veneer and make your smile look as good as new.
If you delay, it may be extremely difficult to reapply the dislodged porcelain veneer. What’s more, a dislodged veneer exposes the prepped part of the tooth. With less tooth enamel and overlying structure in place, it can lead to serious issues with tooth sensitivity, including serious pain and discomfort.
What to Do If a Porcelain Veneer Is Dislodged
As soon as your porcelain veneer is dislodged, it’s important to put the veneer into a small container and bring it to your dentist. Don’t try to put the veneer back on yourself. This can lead to serious damage to the veneer as well as the underlying tooth structure.
When your dentist checks the dislodged veneer, they’ll determine if it’s possible for the veneer to be reapplied safely. The interior of the veneer is cleaned as is the surface of the tooth. Minor repairs can even be made to the veneer if needed to help extend the life of the veneer. Once the veneer and tooth are ready, the dentist can then adhere the veneer back in place. Your smile will be as good as new.
What If a Porcelain Veneer Cannot Be Reapplied?
If a porcelain veneer is unable to be reapplied, the dentist will have to take impressions for a new porcelain veneer. This process is a repeat of the initial veneer procedure and will take about two weeks.
This is another reason why people often prefer having a porcelain veneer reapplied with an emergency visit. Less waiting is involved, and you don’t have to wear temporary veneers again.
Learn More About Emergency Dental Care
If you live in the Philadelphia area and would like to learn more about emergency dental care services, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist. You can reach Artistic Expressions Dentistry by phone in Doylestown by calling (215) 712-8282.
