Dental patients can find long-lasting, personalized smile enhancement with porcelain veneers. These cap-like shells attach to the front of a patient’s teeth to build a straighter, brighter, and fuller smile according to their unique aesthetic goals. You can consult with your cosmetic dentist to learn if this treatment can help you get the smile of your dreams.
Though the benefits of this treatment seem clear, some patients might feel nervous about undergoing dental work. To alleviate lingering dental fear, read on to find responses from your local dental expert to frequently asked questions about the porcelain veneer procedure.
Does the Porcelain Veneers Procedure Hurt?
One of the major sources of dental fear is the anticipation of pain during dental work. You can feel at ease knowing that your dentist will prioritize your comfort during the porcelain veneer procedure.
The dentist starts the placement process of the veneers by etching into the tooth’s enamel to prepare the surface. To ensure you do not feel discomfort, the dentist can give you a local anesthetic to numb the affected area.
After attaching the veneers to the teeth, some patients might feel slight tooth sensitivity. This symptom should fade within a few days. It may take time to get used to the feeling of veneers over your teeth, but the fixtures will not hurt. If they do feel ill-fitting or sore, let your dentist know because this is abnormal.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Dentists design porcelain veneers to withstand the everyday wear and tear of chewing and biting that your teeth endure regularly. But though durable, veneers are not indestructible. Under high pressure, veneers might crack, chip, or dislodge from the teeth.
Since dentists remove a minute amount of enamel from the teeth to secure veneers into place, this could mean your smile might be left vulnerable to dental dangers without veneers. Contact your dentist for urgent dental repairs or replacements if you sustain damage to your veneers.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
Patients often appreciate the longevity of smile enhancement benefits with porcelain veneers. Dentists consider veneers to be a permanent treatment, so make sure this aligns with your preferences before pursuing this dental work.
Veneers will remain on your smile for fifteen or more years without needing replacement as long as you take care of your smile. This maintenance should include good oral hygiene. This entails brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for routine teeth cleanings.
To avoid breaking your veneers, do not bite down on hard items that could make them crack or dislodge. Examples of such items include ice, the end of a pen, and fingernails.
You should also tell your dentist if you have a habit of grinding your teeth. This behavior generates pressure that could harm your dental work. They may want to resolve this issue before beginning treatment or they might consider alternative cosmetic dental solutions.
