If you want long-lasting improvement to the size, shape, color, and alignment of your smile, your dentist will likely recommend porcelain veneers. These custom-made caps secure to the front of your teeth to build a straighter, brighter, and more even smile according to your specific smile goals.
Though the cosmetic dental benefits seem clear, some people might worry about what to expect from their dental work. Knowing more about the treatment can help them feel more at ease in the dentist’s chair. So to relieve lingering dental fear, read on to find responses to frequently asked questions regarding the porcelain veneer procedure and patient comfort.
Does Porcelain Veneers Treatment Hurt?
A common reason that people feel dental anxiety is the anticipation of pain during dental work. You can relax knowing that modern advancement in dentistry prioritizes patient comfort, including the porcelain veneer procedure.
This treatment begins with the preparation of the surface of the affected teeth. The dentist will etch into the enamel to make the adhesive bonding more successful. They will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure you stay comfortable during this process.
Then once your custom-made veneers are ready, you return to the dentist’s office and will not feel pain as they secure the fixtures to the teeth with bonding material. Some patients report slight sensitivity directly after receiving veneers. This sensation should fade within a few days on its own.
If you notice severe pain, this is abnormal. Contact your dentist right away to address this concern.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Dentists design porcelain veneers to not only enhance the look of your smile but to also withstand the everyday wear and tear your teeth experience. That said, veneers are not indestructible.
Under high pressure, veneers might chip, dislodge, or crack. This will leave the underlying teeth exposed and therefore at risk of further dental dangers. So if you sustain damage to your veneers, call your dentist for urgent repairs or replacements.
To avoid harming your veneers, do not bite down on hard items that you do not need to. Examples include fingernails, ice, and the end of a pen. Teeth grinding and clenching could also damage veneers, so tell your dentist if you have this habit.
How Long Will Porcelain Veneers Remain on My Smile?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can stay on your teeth, offering smile enhancement, for fifteen years or longer. But to get the maximum cosmetic dental benefits, you will need to take care of your smile.
Veneers resist both staining and decay, making this an appealing option for patients seeking long-lasting aesthetic improvement. But veneers still collect plaque that can affect your underlying and surrounding teeth.
If you get cavities or other dental problems, your smile might alter, impacting the fit of your veneers. Practice good oral hygiene, which includes attending routine teeth cleanings at your dentist’s office. This ensures you maintain good oral health which will in turn allow your veneers to function well.