Do Veneers Cause Tooth Sensitivity?

If you’re considering improving the appearance of your smile with the help of beautiful, natural looking veneers, you likely already know that these thin porcelain shells can correct everything from the size, shape, color, and even the spacing of your teeth. But occasionally, patients are hesitant to commit to treatment because they’re afraid their restorations will cause tooth sensitivity. The good news is that while you may experience some initially, it is usually only temporary. Here’s why it happens, and what you can do to make your veneer treatment more comfortable.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are custom made to fit over your teeth and improve their appearance. They can be created to your exact specifications, down to the ideal shade of white that you choose for your smile.

With proper care and use, these restorations can last up to 20 years. Do be aware, however, that this procedure is considered irreversible, and thus you’ll always need either veneers or dental crowns on your teeth moving forward. That’s because to ensure they fit properly, your dentist will need to remove small bits of enamel from each chosen tooth.

How Do Veneers Cause Temporary Sensitivity?

Because your dentist will remove a very small sliver of enamel (as little as one-half millimeter, or about the thickness of a fingernail), this can leave your teeth feeling sensitive, especially when exposed to heat or cold. That’s because the outer layer of the tooth’s function is to protect the delicate dentin within it, where the tubules that connect to the nerve are located. If these tubules become exposed to stimuli with different temperatures, the nerves signal the brain that they are in pain. This in turn can cause a sharp, shooting ache that is referred to as tooth sensitivity.

The good news is that this sensation should only be temporary. Once your permanent veneers are placed, they act as replacement enamel, restoring the strength of the tooth and protecting the dentin inside. In most cases, patients who do experience sensitivity notice it clears up within a day or so, and in many situations, it may not even be the enamel removal but the cosmetic procedure itself that is responsible for the discomfort.

How Can I Treat Temporary Tooth Sensitivity?

The good news is that this sensitivity is almost always temporary. However, until it goes away on its own, there are still some safe, effective steps you can take to prevent it. These include:

• Limiting your consumption of any foods or beverages that are very hot or very cold.
• Avoiding anything that is highly acidic, such as citrus fruits or soda.
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
• Rinsing your mouth with warm (not hot!) saltwater to reduce any inflammation and balance pH levels, which may lessen sensitivity-causing stimuli.

Remember, veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile in just one beautiful, long-lasting treatment. In fact, that’s why they’ve earned the nickname “instant orthodontics!” But don’t get sidelined by temporary tooth sensitivity. With the above tips and a little patience, your newly improved smile will look and feel better than ever before you know it!

About Our Practice

At Souris Valley Dental Group, we’re proud to offer a variety of smile-changing cosmetic dentistry treatments like veneers, which can change multiple aspects of your gorgeous grin in just a few short weeks. If you’re ready to transform your teeth, don’t let fear of temporary side effects like sensitivity hold you back. Speak to your dentist today and learn all about the incredible benefits of this amazing upgrade! To book your consultation for veneers, visit our website or call 701-852-5595.