Cosmetic dentistry has taken the world by storm, and more people than ever before are opting to enhance their smiles with incredible, innovative treatments such as veneers. And if you’ve heard of veneers, you might even want them for your own pearly whites—after all, they’re among the most comprehensive of all cosmetic treatments, capable of addressing a wide range of issues. But you might be a little hesitant to commit to them, as you’re worried they might cause uncomfortable issues like sensitivity. Here’s more from your trusted dentist about veneers, the amount of sensitivity you can expect, and some tips for managing your discomfort so that you can continue smiling brightly!
Veneers & Tooth Sensitivity
Veneers are small coverings made from durable dental porcelain that are bonded to the outer surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance. The efficacy of this bond relies not just on the material being used to attach the veneers, but a special etching process in which your dentist removes a tiny amount of enamel from the teeth being treated—about half a millimeter, which is roughly the width of a fingernail.
Not only does this ensure a lasting bond, but it also situates the veneer so that it lays flush and blends in with the rest of your natural teeth. However, this enamel removal is often the culprit behind veneer-related sensitivity. Patients might experience temperature sensitivity, sore or swollen gums, impeded speech, and an increase in saliva production. These symptoms can normally last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, but if you continue to experience sensitivity, it might be a sign of an underlying issue with your veneers.
Useful Tips for Managing Veneer-Related Sensitivity
The bottom line is that even though this sensitivity is temporary and minor, there’s still no sense in needlessly enduring any type of dental discomfort. Here are some useful tips for mitigating some of the discomfort associated with receiving veneers:
- Brush after each meal using a desensitizing toothpaste recommended by your dentist.
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods like hard nuts and popcorn kernels, peanut brittle, lollipops and jawbreakers, and anything else tough to bite into.
- Avoid extremely hot or cold items for a few days. Also, refrain from eating spicy foods.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed and consider rinsing your mouth with lukewarm salt water to assist with inflammation.
- Have patience; sometimes oral sensitivity is out of your control, so don’t feel defeated if the first few days seem difficult. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider with any other specific questions or inquiries—they’re an incredibly helpful resource!
About the Practice
The talented team at Seahurst Park Dentistry is excited to provide patients and families in the Burien, WA community with an unmatched level of dental care! They offer a wide range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic services aimed toward helping you and your loved ones achieve beautiful and healthy smiles for life! If you have any questions about the blog, veneers, or any of the other services offered by the practice, don’t hesitate to contact their team today! Telephone: (206) 244-4622.
