Are you looking for a way to brighten, straighten, or otherwise enhance the appearance of your teeth? Porcelain veneers can give you long-lasting smile enhancement that suits your unique aesthetic goals. These custom-made cap-like shells attach to the front of your teeth, constructing a gorgeous smile.
But even as you look forward to these cosmetic dental benefits, you might still feel nervous about upcoming dental work. Knowing more about your procedure might make you feel more at ease in your dentist’s chair. To alleviate lingering dental fear, read on to find responses to frequently asked questions regarding what you can expect from the porcelain veneer procedure.
Do Porcelain Veneers Hurt?
A major reason that people feel dental anxiety is the anticipation of pain during their dental work. You can feel more at ease during the porcelain veneer procedure, knowing that modern dentistry prioritizes the comfort of its patients. So you will not feel pain during this cosmetic dental treatment.
The first step of the procedure involves the dentist etching into the outer layer of your tooth, enamel. They will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure you do not experience discomfort during this process.
When your dentist uses bonding to attach the custom veneers to the teeth, this also will not hurt. Some patients may feel slight tooth sensitivity directly after receiving the veneers, but this feeling will fade on its own within a few days. More severe pain is abnormal, and you should tell your dentist about this symptom and receive an urgent evaluation.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Dentists build veneers using durable porcelain and secure bonding adhesive for lasting effects. Porcelain veneers can withstand the everyday wear and tear that your teeth experience, but they are not indestructible. Under high pressure, a veneer could chip or dislodge from the tooth.
If this occurs, dentists consider this a dental emergency because it breaks the seal of the fixture, exposing the vulnerable underlying teeth. So do not hesitate to contact your dentist if you sustain damage to your veneers.
To prevent harm to your veneers, do not bite down on hard items when possible. Examples include fingernails and the end of a pen. You should also tell your dentist if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth as this could hurt your veneers as well.
What Benefits Can I Expect from Veneers?
Smile enhancement from porcelain veneers can improve the look of your teeth for fifteen years or longer with proper care. The fixtures resist both staining and decay so that you can see these enduring results.
To ensure your veneers function as well as they should, you will still need to practice good oral hygiene though. This entails brushing your teeth twice per day, flossing daily, and attending routine teeth cleanings at your dentist’s office. Then you can see a whiter, straighter, fuller, and smoother smile.