Do you have several flaws and imperfections in your teeth? Porcelain veneers are an excellent solution that can address all your concerns at once! They can fix a wide range of issues, including chips, cracks, gaps, discoloration, and even misalignment. Since a thin layer of enamel is removed in preparation for veneers, some patients wonder whether the process will make their teeth sensitive. Read along as we explain what you need to know about veneers and sensitivity.
Do Porcelain Veneers Increase Sensitivity?
For porcelain veneers, minimal preparation of the teeth is required to ensure successful treatment. Your cosmetic dentist will remove a very thin layer of enamel (about the thickness of a fingernail) to make sure proper bonding occurs. As a result, some patients might experience mild tooth sensitivity for a few days to a few weeks after getting their veneers placed. However, any sensitivity that lasts more than two to three months or feels excruciating may indicate a bigger problem. In that case, you should contact your dentist right away to alleviate your discomfort.
Can Porcelain Veneers Help Sensitivity?
Most patients worry that porcelain veneers will increase tooth sensitivity, but they can actually help alleviate it! Since veneers are permanently bonded to the front surfaces of teeth, they prevent hot or cold foods from reaching the damaged tooth enamel. Of course, whether or not veneers can alleviate your sensitivity will depend on your unique case. Your dentist will decide whether you’re an ideal candidate for treatment based on your enamel loss. If you’ve lost too much enamel, veneers might not be a solution for you because they won’t be able to bond properly.
How to Manage Sensitivity
Are you worried about post-treatment sensitivity? Here are some tips to help you manage it:
- Watch your diet. After getting porcelain veneers, be mindful of the foods and drinks you consume. Avoid hot or cold items, such as coffee or ice cream, as they can worsen sensitivity. You should also limit your intake of acidic, processed, fatty, and sugary foods and drinks.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication. Are you experiencing significant soreness or sensitivity after treatment? Take a mild OTC pain reliever to alleviate your symptoms.
- Rinse with warm saltwater. This simple but effective technique can relieve sensitivity, reduce swelling, and balance your mouth’s pH levels.
In short, porcelain veneers can temporarily cause sensitive teeth. However, most patients find that the mild inconvenience is well-worth a beautiful new smile!
About the Author
Dr. Donald Marks earned his degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. He is passionate about delivering exceptional dental care and building life-long friendships with patients and colleagues alike. If you’re unhappy with your smile, Dr. Marks can transform it into you’ll proudly show off with porcelain veneers. To learn more about what to expect from treatment, visit our website or call (814) 234-0329.
