If you’re unhappy with your smile, or are dealing with several cosmetic imperfections at once, there’s simply no better solution than veneers! These thin shells of dental porcelain can completely redesign the appearance of one or more teeth, whether you’re dealing with chips, cracks, gaps, stains, or more. However, ensuring that your veneers fit properly into your smile requires removing some enamel, which makes many patients wonder if they will experience tooth sensitivity afterwards. To find out if veneers cause tooth sensitivity, keep reading!
Why Is Enamel Removed for Veneers?
Your enamel is the hard white shell around your teeth that protects the sensitive inner pulp. When a cavity burns through it or it wears away from highly acidic foods, the layer of dentin underneath it is exposed, which triggers uncomfortable sensitivity.
To place a veneer, a thin layer of enamel needs to be removed, but only about the thickness of a contact lens. This is important for making room for your veneer, as without it, your veneer would look bulky and unnatural. Skimming away some enamel will ensure that the veneer sits flush and in line with the rest of your teeth. Removing enamel also roughens up the surface of your tooth, creating a better surface for the veneer to bond to.
Veneers & Tooth Sensitivity
It’s natural to experience slight tooth sensitivity after practically any dental treatment, from simple cleanings or fillings to more involved gum disease treatment or getting a dental crown. Veneers are no exception. However, despite the fact that enamel is being removed, you shouldn’t experience very much tooth sensitivity since it is immediately covered with the veneer. While some patients will experience some slight sensitivity in their teeth for a few days to a week or so, many patients won’t feel any side effects at all.
Managing Sensitive Teeth
If you experience tooth sensitivity after getting veneers, rest assured that this symptom should fade on its own relatively quickly. In the meantime, you can use these tips to keep your smile comfortable:
- Brush and floss your teeth daily to remove any irritating particles in your mouth
- Ask your dentist about using specialized desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash
- Avoid eating very hot, cold, sweet, or spicy foods for several days
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as instructed on the label
- Call your dentist if your sensitivity doesn’t seem to be going away
Don’t let an imperfect smile hold you back in life! Veneers could be the perfect solution to regain your confidence and self-esteem. While you may experience some slight tooth sensitivity afterward, the stunning results will be well worth the temporary discomfort!
About the Practice
At University Dental Group, we are dedicated to helping the families of Worcester achieve smiles that look and feel their best for a lifetime. We are proud to offer a wide range of services for every need, including personalized preventive care, rejuvenating restorations, and beautiful cosmetic solutions to help you get the smile you deserve. If you have more questions about tooth sensitivity after getting veneers, don’t hesitate to contact us online or at (508) 960-6495.