You’re not alone if you feel self-conscious about dental imperfections, like chips, cracks, stains, or mild misalignments. Every year, patients spend billions of dollars on cosmetic services, such as veneers, intended to address imperfections and enhance their appearance.
But it’s normal to have questions about what to expect from the results. For example, many people want to know what veneers will feel like before committing to the treatment. If you’re considering this popular aesthetic service, continue reading to learn more about it!
What Are Veneers Made From?
Veneers are thin shells that are usually about 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm thick, and are typically made from resilient resin or ceramic, though porcelain is the default material of choice. This is because it reflects light naturally like enamel, can be customized to match your natural teeth, and is durable enough to resist chips, cracks, and stains.
That means these one-of-a-kind restorations are incredibly realistic and durable, and can even help shield the underlying teeth from potential damage and discoloration, making them both beautiful and functional.
Does Getting Veneers Hurt?
Your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel for your veneers to fit and function correctly without looking overly large or unnatural, or contributing to a dental misalignment. This protective outer layer doesn’t grow back, meaning this step is irreversible, and can also sometimes cause sensitivity because it allows sensations to travel more easily through the underlying layer of dentin to trigger the tender nerves inside.
Many providers understand you might be afraid of this preparation, and will do all they can to help you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. For instance, they can numb your mouth with a local anesthetic, and/or provide sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you feel calm and comfortable. Then, you might feel sore temporarily afterward, but this can often be managed with over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
What Do Veneers Feel Like After Placement?
It can sometimes take a few weeks for your tongue and the other sensitive tissues in your mouth to completely adjust to the presence and dimensions of these covers. You might notice a temporary lisp or increased sensitivity until you’ve fully acclimated. But then, you might realize that you’ve become so accustomed to your new restorations that you forget that they’re there!
As is the case with many cosmetic dental solutions, it’s unusual to experience lasting discomfort associated with this treatment. If you experience severe or persistent pain, please let your dentist know so they can examine your condition and adjust your veneers as needed to provide relief.
Meet the Author
Dr. Sarfraz Verjee is a compassionate dentist with 15+ years of experience helping people of all ages build the healthiest and most beautiful versions of their smiles. He earned his dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry, and today, he works diligently to offer a complete menu of services, including veneers, to meet your uqnieu needs conveniently under one roof. Then, he uses state-of-the-art technology to deliver more comfortable, accurate, and long-lasting results. If you’re unhappy with the way your smile looks, you can request a cosmetic consultation on the website or by calling (713) 943-9993.