Why does my porcelain veneer keep popping off?

Question

I have had porcelain veneer on my two upper front teeth for close to 10 years, and just this past August, one of my veneers popped off for the first time. I got the same veneer bonded back on right after that (by a different dentist than the one who originally put them on), but it popped off again in October, and then again in November, and again in December. I am frustrated beyond belief. What do I do? Should I go back to the dentist who originally put them on? I'm at a loss.

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

It sounds like you may need the tooth re-prepped and a new veneer placed.  Before doing this though, you may want to try going somewhere else to have the veneer cemented again.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSt. Louis, MO area (O'Fallon, IL)Real Self 100

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

There are usually 2 main issues when a veneer pops off; poor bonding of porcelain to tooth, or bite forces exceeding bond strength.Since it lasted 10 years, I think it is fair to assume the bond was done well/properly. It may surprise you to know that not all dentists know how to bond veneers, and those that are unfamiliar do not have the proper equipment or materials in inventory.  It is possible that a return visit to the original dentist will work just fine.Teeth may have shifted, so an evaluation of your bite may be wise.One thing to understand is the "law of diminishing returns."  It means something else in economics, but in dentistry it can mean "it won't work like it did."  Imagine a bumper sticker gets removed from a car.  It is highly likely that some "gum" or "glue" will remain on the car.  Dirt likely gets stuck on the residual glue, and a new sticker will not stick as well.  It will stick, but not as well. Each time a sticker is removed, the pattern repeats.  Eventually NOTHING will stick. Residual cement on both the tooth and the veneer will inhibit a strong bond.  A brand new veneer, bonded to fresh enamel/dentin, will likely work very well.  Perhaps even 10 years.

Robert Fields, DDS · Answer

Hi from Lafayette Hill!  Sounds like your Veneers have been very successful since they have lasted for ten years. I would try one more time to have it put back on, but would go back to the original dentist who placed them ten years ago if possible.  I would try one more time and maybe it is time for a new Veneer. It is possible your teeth could have moved a little and this will affect the Veneer.

Why does my porcelain veneer keep popping off?

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Why does my porcelain veneer keep popping off?

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