If you want a straighter, fuller, or brighter smile, a dentist can give you long-lasting aesthetic dental enhancement with porcelain veneers. This cosmetic dental solution involves a dentist attaching custom caps to the front of the teeth, sealing them into place with bonding to ensure durable effects.
Though the cosmetic dental advantages seem clear, some people will feel nervous undergoing dental work. You can feel more confident about your dental treatment when you know what to expect from it. Read on to find responses to frequently asked questions regarding the procedure and aftermath of porcelain veneer smile enhancement treatment.
Does Porcelain Veneers Treatment Hurt?
Dental fear often stems from the anticipation of pain during dental work. You can feel at ease when receiving porcelain veneers knowing that it will not hurt and in fact, your dentist will prioritize your comfort during the procedure.
The first step in the treatment involves preparing the teeth by etching into the tooth enamel. A dentist can give you a local anesthetic to ensure you stay comfortable during this process. This will numb the affected area, blocking pain signals from transmitting to the brain briefly.
Securing the custom veneers to the teeth using bonding will not hurt either. Some patients notice slight sensitivity in their teeth directly after receiving veneers, but this symptom should fade on its own within a few days. Severe pain is abnormal, and you should tell your dentist if this occurs.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Dentists design porcelain veneers to withstand the everyday wear and tear from chewing and biting that your teeth experience. But these fixtures are not indestructible. An ill-timed bite on a hard item can create pressure that may chip or dislodge a cap from the tooth.
Dentists consider this damage to veneers to be a dental emergency requiring prompt repairs or replacements at their office. This is because the damage will mean the seal of the fixtures has broken, exposing the vulnerable underlying teeth to many dental dangers.
Avoid biting down on hard items, like the end of a pen or fingernails, to prevent this problem. And do not hesitate to contact your dentist about any issues with your veneers.
How Long Will Veneers Remain on My Smile?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can remain attached to your teeth for fifteen years or longer. You can ask your dentist about touch-ups or repairs if you notice minor damage accruing with these fixtures. Because the process requires shaving into the tooth enamel, dentists consider the treatment a permanent dental solution.
Veneers will resist both staining and decay for long-lasting results. But you will still need to practice good oral hygiene if you want your veneers to function as well as possible.
Dental issues like cavities or gum disease can affect your underlying teeth and alter your mouth, affecting the fit of your veneers. Take care of your smile if you want to maximize the benefits of this dental work.