Common Reasons Why a Dental Veneer Fails

Dental veneers are a type of cosmetic dentistry treatment that can help improve multiple imperfections in your smile. These thin shells of porcelain ceramic are designed to go over your natural teeth. So, while your teeth will need to be prepped for the veneers, you still retain your natural teeth for a strong and functional smile—just improved with beautiful veneers.

Although dental veneers nationally have a 91% success rate, there are ways in which your veneer can fail, meaning it would need to be removed and reapplied or replaced with a crown (cap) to continue enhancing your smile [1]. What are some of the most common reasons a dental veneer fails?

Poor Placement

Correct placement is critical for veneers to look, feel, and function properly for your unique smile. If dental veneers are not placed correctly, they may wear improperly over time, which can lead to a chipped or cracked veneer that will need to be repaired or replaced.

The best way to ensure your veneers are appropriately placed for maximum longevity, comfort, and durability is to choose an experienced cosmetic specialist, a prosthodontist, such as Dr. Marlin for your veneer procedure.  Lack of provider experience and skill can lead to a higher risk for your dental veneers to fail [2].

Cavities or Tooth Infections

Although dental veneers dramatically improve your smile, they don’t prevent you from getting cavities. Tooth decay will require treatment that could mean your dentist will need to remove the veneer, especially if the decay is extensive and has impacted the pulp of your tooth, which would require root canal treatment.

If you have existing tooth decay or gum disease and are considering veneers, Dr. Marlin will determine if you are a candidate and ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy before the procedure is performed, ensuring that you will be able to keep your radiant smile for a long time. Should you already have dental veneers and get a cavity or tooth infection, it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible.

Incorrect Bonding

Veneers must be properly bonded to your natural teeth for them to be comfortable, functional, and last for many years. Otherwise, the veneers will not last as long as intended, and they may be more prone to become loose and experience damage over time. 

If your dental veneers are not securely bonded to your teeth, they might feel bulky or uncomfortable in your mouth. You may also see space between your gum tissue and the veneer, which is indicative that your veneers are not properly in place.

Improper prepping of the teeth is another reason why dental veneers fail. Correct bonding is a crucial part of the veneer placement process and key to the success of the veneer [3].

Teeth Grinding

People who suffer from untreated bruxism—teeth grinding—are typically not good candidates for veneers. Although veneers are strong and can last for well over a decade, bruxism puts immense pressure on the teeth and can cause veneers to loosen, crack, or chip, leading to the need for a replacement.

If you grind your teeth, your dental veneers are at higher risk of failing [4]. Fortunately, by having your dentist effectively compensate for your teeth grinding by making sure that you do not bite too strongly on them and/or with a night guard to protect them, and, thereby, support your new, attractive and healthy smile.

Are Your Veneers Failing?

Having loose, uncomfortable, or damaged veneers isn’t normal. Your dental veneers should feel secure, comfortable, and look natural to create an attractive and functional smile. If you’re experiencing any problems with your dental veneers, don’t wait to follow up with Dr. Marlin and his team at Elite Prosthetic Dentistry to correct the issue and get your beautiful smile back.

Sources:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6311473/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4229681/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24608629/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4192563/