Dental veneers are amazing cosmetic appliances that can completely transform a smile by reshaping teeth and concealing defects like chips, cracks, stains, and gaps, and they are the open secret behind many of the flawless smiles of celebrities and media personalities. However, some patients may experience temporary dental sensitivity after receiving these devices, and there are a few effective ways to address this issue. Here’s a look at how veneers are placed and how you can prevent dental sensitivity.
How Are Veneers Placed?
Veneers are thin ceramic shells designed to mimic the ideal appearance of natural dental structure, and dentists use them to transform smiles by cementing them over teeth afflicted by chips, cracks, stains, gaps, or misshapenness. This process involves removing a small amount of enamel that will not grow back from the treated teeth, which means these pearly whites will have to wear the appliances from then on for protection against infection and injury. Since the veneers will act in the place of the removed enamel, they will not increase the patient’s risk of oral health issues.
How Can I Treat or Prevent Dental Sensitivity After Receiving Veneers?
Since placing veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel, the teeth that receive them may be especially sensitive for a while after the procedure. Fortunately, you can reduce or prevent this uncomfortable sensation by following your dentist’s aftercare instructions, which will probably include:
- Avoiding crunchy, chewy, sticky, spicy, sweet, or acidic foods for several days after the procedure.
- Chewing carefully to avoid unnecessary stress to your teeth and veneers.
- Refraining from drinking sweet, acidic, hot, or cold beverages while your teeth are recovering.
- Practicing excellent oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash every day.
- Taking over-the-counter pain medication according to the instructions printed on the label.
Your dental sensitivity should gradually fade away in about a week or less. However, if you notice signs of infection such as redness, swelling, fever, fatigue, chills, or a nasty taste in your mouth in the days after the procedure, please contact your dentist for assistance.
Don’t let treatable smile defects make you anxious about showing off your gorgeous smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best ways to maintain your oral health and achieve the lovely grin you’ve always wanted.
About the Practice
Dentistry for Life provides exemplary oral health services to the community of Lancaster. Led by Drs. Jason Herres and Vincent Votilla, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys effective treatments in a warm and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as dental veneers. To learn more about the placement process for veneers, contact the office online or dial (781) 272-0441.