Porcelain and composite veneers are strong, but they aren’t indestructible. A bite on something hard, a knock, or years of grinding can chip a veneer or loosen it. The good news is that most chipped or loose veneers can be repaired or replaced. Here’s what to do in the meantime, and what to expect when you see us.
What to do straight away
- Keep the veneer or any pieces in a clean, dry container and bring them to your appointment.
- Don’t glue it back on yourself. Household and nail glues can damage the tooth and the veneer and make a proper repair harder.
- Protect the tooth. Avoid biting on it, and avoid very hot, cold or hard food.
- Cover a sharp edge with sugar-free gum or dental wax from a pharmacy.
- Manage sensitivity with toothpaste for sensitive teeth and over-the-counter pain relief if needed, following the packet.
Chipped, cracked or fallen off?
- Small chip: sometimes the edge can be smoothed, or the chip repaired with tooth-coloured composite.
- Crack through the veneer: a cracked porcelain veneer usually needs replacing so it doesn’t break further.
- Veneer has come off in one piece: if it still fits well and the tooth underneath is healthy, it may be possible to re-bond it.
- Pain, swelling or a damaged tooth underneath: the tooth may need treatment before the veneer is repaired.
What it costs
At Sydney Dental Veneers, an emergency appointment with an exam and OPG x-ray starts at $195. If you need a new veneer, composite veneers start from $700 per tooth and porcelain veneers from $1,490 per tooth. Your dentist will explain your options and give you a quote before any treatment starts. All dental treatment carries risks; see our treatment risks page.
Why veneers chip, and how to prevent it
- Grinding and clenching, often at night. A custom night splint can help protect your veneers.
- Biting hard objects such as ice, pens or fingernails, or opening packets with your teeth.
- Sport without a mouthguard.
- Gum recession or decay around the edge of a veneer, which regular check-ups can pick up early.
Getting seen quickly
We are at Suite 302, Level 3, 70 Pitt Street, Sydney, near Wynyard and Martin Place stations, and open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Call (02) 8090 1105 or book online. Read more on our emergency veneer repair page.