Porcelain veneers are an excellent method for smile restoration, but dentists are often asked if the procedure can make a patient’s teeth more sensitive. While removing a microscopic layer of tooth enamel for a veneer to bond properly can lead to short-term sensitivity in the tooth, this does not lead to long-term discomfort when done properly.
Veneers can safely and reliably address a multitude of cosmetic dental issues such as gaps or pointy teeth, minor alignment problems, and severe stains that don’t yield to whitening treatments. While getting veneers can bring temporary tooth sensitivity, they can also address long-term severe tooth sensitivity in some cases. Read on to learn how much sensitivity to expect after receiving veneers and some tips on how to manage it.
What Should I Expect After Getting Veneers?
Not all patients will experience any unusual sensitivity. Many report mild tooth sensitivity after getting new porcelain veneers. This is due to the removal of a small amount of enamel leaving the nerves less insulated against heat and cold. The body will adjust to the new condition with time, so this is a temporary effect usually lasting from a few days to a few weeks.
Another common cause of sensitive teeth after getting veneers is an improper bite. A misaligned bite can be irritating, and the body might need time to learn how to bite with the added mass to the teeth. This problem typically corrects itself within a few days.
Other temporary discomforts of adjusting to new veneers might include difficulty speaking, increased salivation, or sore gums due to the stress of the procedure and the new mass of the veneers. Most people experiencing any of these will no longer notice them within two weeks.
When Should I Get Help?
If your post-veneer tooth sensitivity is severe or lasts more than two or three months, or if your bite feels off after a few days, call your dentist. Either of these can be a sign of a larger underlying problem such as the veneers not bonding properly with your teeth.
There are also a few preventative measures against sensitivity you can take, like:
- Avoiding nervous chewing or grinding.
- Refraining from eating hard or chewy foods, hot or cold drinks, and anything spicy or sugary.
- Taking over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen.
- Using desensitizing toothpaste.
Veneers need a certain amount of enamel on the teeth to bond properly and the procedure is not a good fit for everyone. Because enamel is removed, teeth receiving veneers will always need them in place. A consultation with your dentist can help you understand the expected recovery and determine if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers.
About the Practice
Coombs, Ross, & Sourlis Family Dentistry has served the Rock Hill area for more than 20 years. With pride in a proven history of helping countless patients achieve healthy, confident smiles, the practice provides lasting high-quality results in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. For more information on porcelain veneers, visit the practice’s website or call (803) 592-6201.