In March 2021, my dentist placed ten veneers on my top front teeth. I agreed to ten veneers because I have a broad smile. My dentist did beautiful work, and I have recommended several friends to her. I wore a nightguard before I got the veneers because I grind my teeth. And I have never stopped wearing a nightguard. Two nights ago, I forgot to wear my night guard, and in just that one incident, my right lateral incisor veneer cracked. Should forgetting to wear my nightguard one night cause a veneer to crack? Can a dentist repair a cracked veneer? And should I ask my dentist to replace it for free? I was planning on getting a dental implant for a lower first molar, but this setback might delay my plans. Thank you. Lyzelle from ME
Lyzelle,
Thank you for your question.
Can a Dentist Repair a Cracked Porcelain Veneer?
If a porcelain veneer cracked into two pieces that fit together perfectly, a cosmetic dentist could bond the veneer onto the tooth. The crack will be virtually invisible.
Should Your Dentist Replace Your Cracked Veneer at No Cost?
If your porcelain veneer cracked because you failed to wear your nightguard, your dentist is not responsible for replacing the veneer at no cost. But your veneers are only three months old, so some dentists would replace the cracked one and charge you for the lab fee or another portion. But you can expect to pay the full cost if it happens again.
Dental implants are highly effective for tooth replacement
Another factor is whether your dentist gave you specific instructions about wearing your nightguard to avoid damaging your veneers. If your dentist explained the risk, she might not be inclined to replace your cracked veneer at no cost. And you mentioned wearing a nightguard even before your dentist placed the veneers, so unless there are factors that you have not mentioned to us, be prepared to pay the total cost of replacing the veneer.
We understand that you have been anticipating getting a dental implant. But if you have found an excellent dentist, be reasonable if she is willing to negotiate with you on the cost of replacing the veneer.
Michael Szarek, DMD, an accredited cosmetic dentist in Lowell, MA, sponsors this post.