A lost dental veneer doesn't qualify as a dental emergency, but it's an issue that requires a trip to your preferred cosmetic dentistry office as soon as you can make the arrangements. What does the reattachment process involve? And do you need to do anything in the meantime?

The Underlying Tooth

In an ideal scenario, a cosmetic dentist will simply cement the veneer back into place with minimal fuss. However, this isn't the default treatment, and the underlying tooth will be carefully inspected to make sure it hasn't deteriorated, resulting in the veneer detaching. Even when the reattachment process isn't accompanied by additional complications, the veneer must be professionally cemented, so don't be tempted to rebond it yourself.

Hold Onto the Veneer

Assuming that you're able to recover the lost veneer (such as if it comes off while you're eating), you should definitely retain it. If the veneer is structurally sound, it can be reattached as is. If it has broken into pieces, then a new veneer is needed. And if it has been swallowed, then it's gone for good (even though it will technically reemerge before too long). 

A Delay

It's best to get the matter dealt with as soon as you can, and you shouldn't have to wait too long to have your veneer reattached. But depending on your schedule (and that of your dentist), there might be a delay between loss and reattachment. Do you need to take special care of your newly-exposed tooth?

Beware of Sensitivity

The tooth itself doesn't require much specialist care, however, you might experience some uncomfortable sensitivity, and you should modify your diet accordingly. Triggers can include foods and drinks that are especially hot or cold, as well as anything spicy or acidic. It's strictly a temporary problem, and the sensitivity should vanish as soon as the veneer is back in place. 

Rough Edges

You could also experience another form of sensitivity, and this is due to the fact that the newly-exposed tooth can have some rough patches. When the veneer has broken into pieces, some of those pieces might still be attached to your tooth (which are easy for a dentist to remove). The remnants of the bonding agent can also create a rough, uneven surface. Take care with these rough patches, and if necessary, head to a drugstore to pick up some dental wax. A small amount of dental wax can be applied to the tooth, covering those rough edges, which will spare your tongue and the inside of your lips from irritation.  

A bit of caution is needed while you're waiting for your veneer to be reattached, but the process itself isn't complicated or time-consuming.

For more information, contact a local cosmetic dentistry office.