Dental veneers can offer an exciting transformation, especially if you’ve suffered from poor oral hygiene for a while. However, they can also bring along an unexpected companion: tooth sensitivity. This is a normal part of the acclimation process, so there’s no need to worry right away.
If the discomfort persists or begins to irritate you, there are options available to help you cope. Continue reading to explore these options in-depth and get back to enjoying life with your new smile.
Why Veneer Treatment May Cause Tooth Sensitivity
In order to place your veneers, your dentist must shave away a small amount of your tooth enamel so that the veneers sit flush against your gumline.
Without this important step, your new prosthetics would be too bulky, and may possibly cause sores or other complications.
With this small amount of enamel gone, foods that are too hot, too cold, or too sugary radiate a bit deeper into your pearly whites, possibly coming near the pulp where all the nerves of your teeth are. This causes discomfort or momentary sharp pain.
Tips To Reduce Discomfort
It’s important to note that this sensitivity will eventually fade away as you get used to your veneers.
The bonding agent that is used in the treatment is slightly acidic and may be contributing to your tooth sensitivity. This discomfort shouldn’t last more than one to three weeks.
In the meantime, here are some ways that you can reduce the sensations in your teeth:
- Brush your teeth after eating to clear out excess food particles that may have made their way between your veneers.
- Take some over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen which inhibits pain receptors in your nerves.
- Avoid grinding your teeth or chewing on objects like pens out of habit.
- Let your food and drink come to room temperature before consuming.
- Avoid overly hard, gritty, or sticky foods like ice, corn on the cob, or candy as these can damage your teeth or the veneers over them.
- Rinse with warm salty water three times a day. This reduces the acidity in your mouth and can help with bacteria build-up as well as sensitivity.
As always, if the pain you’re experiencing worsens, or doesn’t fade after several weeks, schedule an appointment with your dentist to garner their expert advice.
Following these suggestions will help relieve discomfort and get you back to enjoying the aesthetics of your smile. While tooth sensitivity can accompany your smile transformation with veneers for a short time, the results are well worth it.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Rose believes that a great dentist is someone who builds trust with his patients. He graduated from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. Since then, he has strived to expand his knowledge through continuing education with the prestigious Kois Center. To schedule a veneer consultation at Rose Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, call (702) 459-8998 or visit the website to explore other services.