Veneers can be a great option for correcting multiple aesthetic dental flaws, but before you have them placed, it’s important to have an accurate idea of what to expect from the procedure. You may have heard that having veneers placed can lead to tooth sensitivity. Is this true? And if it is, what can you do to keep your discomfort under control? Here’s what you need to know before you start the process of enhancing your smile.
Veneers and Tooth Sensitivity
To make room for veneers, a small amount of enamel needs to be removed from your teeth. This can end up exposing the layer of dentin that’s normally protected by the enamel. Dentin contains a number of tiny openings that lead to the nerves at the center of the tooth. As such, if the dentin touches anything that’s particularly hot or cold, it can result in significant dental discomfort.
Generally speaking, the sensitivity that occurs after your teeth are prepared for veneers should fade away on its own. The discomfort often subsides after a few days, although it can potentially last up to two weeks.
Managing Tooth Sensitivity
There are multiple steps you can take to keep tooth sensitivity under control. Here are some tips for staying as comfortable as possible in the days following your procedure:
- Plan Your Diet Carefully: You should make a point of staying away from foods or beverages that could trigger tooth sensitivity. This includes anything that’s particularly hot or cold, such as coffee or ice cream. It’s also a good idea to stay away from acidic foods such as oranges.
- Take an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever: Ibuprofen and similar types of over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate some of the discomfort in your tooth. When using any type of medication, be sure to carefully follow any directions related to dosage.
- Regularly Rinse Your Mouth with Salt Water: Rinsing with salt water multiple times a day can often help with tooth sensitivity. It can also soothe any swelling of the gums that you might be experiencing after your treatment.
There’s no reason to let worries about tooth sensitivity discourage you from getting veneers. The discomfort will only be temporary, and there are several steps you can take to manage it. And once the process is complete and the sensitivity has subsided, you will be able to fully enjoy the increased confidence that comes with your newly improved smile!
About the Author
Dr. Mark Makram is a proud graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. He has completed multiple advanced courses at the Seattle Institute for Advanced Dental Education, and he belongs to multiple professional organizations such as the Collier County Dental Association. He loves helping his patients upgrade their smiles with veneers and other forms of cosmetic dentistry. If you’re thinking of getting veneers to correct the imperfections on your teeth, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Makram at his practice in Naples by visiting his website or calling (239) 513-9990.