Whether it’s to conceal discoloration, cracks, chips, or fix misalignment, veneers are often recommended to patients who want to change the look of their smile. However, the procedure does involve a removal of a small amount of enamel, so some patients hesitate getting veneers because of the discomfort of potential tooth sensitivity. Fortunately, while any sensitivity from veneers is temporary, your enhanced smile can last for decades to come.
Do Veneers Make Teeth Sensitive?
The process of preparing your teeth for veneers requires the removal of a microscopic amount of tooth enamel, which can impact tooth and temperature sensitivity. The enamel must be removed to give the veneer a proper surface to bond to and maintain the shape of the natural tooth.
For the first few days after getting your new veneers, your teeth may experience some sensitivity because there is less enamel to protect the dental nerve from exposure to temperature.
Although not everyone will experience tooth sensitivity from getting veneers, mild tooth sensitivity post-procedure is common and nothing to worry about.
How Long Will My Teeth Be Sensitive?
For most people, mild tooth sensitivity from veneers lasts anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If you continue to experience it past two or three months, there might be a bigger problem that requires immediate treatment from your dentist.
In rare instances, some people have experienced longer-term discomfort as a result of veneers. Here are some warning signs to let you know when it’s time to consult your dentist:
- Severe tooth sensitivity
- A misaligned bite that doesn’t readjust after a few days
- A loose veneer
- A crack or chip in the veneer
- A toothache beneath the veneer
Managing Tooth Sensitivity
While the tooth sensitivity from veneers is mild, there are still steps that you can take to lessen discomfort. Some things that can help are brushing your teeth after each meal with a desensitizing toothpaste, avoiding hard, sweet, and spicy food, drinking room temperature liquids, rinsing with salt water, and taking mild pain medication according to the directions on the label. Although these steps are not preventative, they will help reduce discomfort.
Not every patient will experience tooth sensitivity from veneers. Even so, any sensitivity you might develop is temporary, but the benefits of your newly enhanced smile will last for years.
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati has been a first-class dentist in Peabody for over 25 years. He is dedicated to treating his patients like family and offers general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as implants. If you would like to learn more about veneers and tooth sensitivity, you can reach Dr. Saati via his website or by phone at (978) 531-2185.