Veneers are a powerful cosmetic solution that can completely transform your smile instantly correcting discoloration, unevenness, chips, and spacing. But even though porcelain veneers are known for their strength, they're not immune to damage. Whether it’s a cracked veneer, a chipped edge, or a complete dislodgment, veneer damage can happen and when it does, knowing what to do next is essential.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most common causes behind a broken veneer, how to tell if your veneer is at risk, what to do when one breaks, and how to prevent damage moving forward. We’ll also help you understand when it’s time to repair vs. Replace and why expert care is your best path forward.
One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is: Are veneers easy to break?
In general no, veneers are not easy to break under normal circumstances. Most porcelain veneers are crafted from high-strength dental ceramic and are designed to last 10–15 years or more when properly maintained. They’re resistant to staining, strong under chewing pressure, and securely bonded to your natural teeth.
But like any dental restoration, veneers can become vulnerable when exposed to:
In other words, veneers are durable, but not indestructible.
Nighttime teeth grinding is one of the most common causes of veneer damage. Repeated stress over time, especially when the person isn’t aware of it, can slowly wear down both the veneer and the tooth beneath it. Grinding can lead to microfractures that eventually become a fully cracked veneer.
If you’ve had veneers placed and also suspect bruxism, talk to your dentist about a custom night guard to protect your investment.
While porcelain is strong, sudden pressure from biting into something hard, like a popcorn kernel or hard candy, can crack or chip a veneer. Accidents, sports injuries, or even biting down the wrong way can also cause unexpected damage.
Even the best-made veneer won’t last forever. Over time, adhesive materials can weaken, especially if hygiene hasn’t been consistent or if regular cleanings have been skipped. In these cases, the veneer may loosen or completely fall off, what we call a veneer fail.
A veneer may also lose its fit as your natural teeth shift with age, making it more prone to stress.
First and foremost, don’t panic. Veneer issues are more common than people think, and in most cases, they’re fixable.
Here’s what to do if you notice a cracked or broken veneer:
In some cases, yes. Small chips or cracks can often be polished or smoothed out if the underlying structure remains sound. However, if the veneer is significantly cracked or has detached, it may need to be fully replaced to restore both function and aesthetics.
Your dentist will assess:
To avoid dealing with another broken veneer, follow these care tips:
These steps can significantly extend the life of your veneers and protect your overall oral health.
Sometimes, what looks like a cracked or damaged veneer may just be a surface stain or cosmetic issue that can be addressed with a professional cleaning or whitening consult.
If you're concerned about discoloration, you might find our article helpful: Top 5 Reasons to Choose Professional Teeth Whitening: Achieve a Brighter Smile with Expert Care
It’s also a good reminder that teeth whitening should be done before getting veneers, not after as porcelain doesn’t whiten like natural enamel.
If you're dealing with a cracked veneer, want to avoid veneer fails, or simply need guidance on how to protect your investment, we're here for you.
Our team led by experienced doctors who blend technical precision with cosmetic artistry has helped thousands of patients preserve and enhance their smiles.
Visit us at one of our three convenient locations in Tribeca, the Upper East Side, or Quogue. Schedule your appointment now and let’s bring your smile back to full strength with comfort, clarity, and care that lasts.
