If you want a whiter and straighter smile, you can find effective, durable, and long-lasting cosmetic dental enhancement with porcelain veneers. This treatment uses custom-made shells that a dentist attaches to the front of teeth to construct a brighter and more even smile according to your aesthetic goals.
Though the benefits seem clear, many people feel nervous about upcoming dental work. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease in the dentist’s chair. To alleviate any lingering dental fear, read on to see your dentist respond to frequently asked questions regarding the porcelain veneer procedure.
Does the Porcelain Veneers Procedure Hurt?
A major cause of fear of the dentist and dental work stems from the anticipation of pain during a procedure. Patients can relax knowing that receiving porcelain veneers will not hurt and they will feel minimal discomfort.
The process requires the preparation of the tooth enamel, and a dentist will etch into the tooth so that the veneers can better adhere to the surface. You will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area so that you do not feel pain.
The veneers attach using dental bonding, a resin that hardens and keeps the fixtures in place. This process does not hurt, and the veneers will not cause pain to your smile. Some patients may feel slight sensitivity in their teeth directly after this treatment, but the symptom should fade.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Your dentist designs porcelain veneers to withstand the wear and tear your teeth experience from everyday chewing and biting without issue. However, these dental fixtures are not indestructible. When exposed to abnormally high amounts of pressure, veneers might break or fall off of the teeth.
For this reason, you should not bite down on hard-textured items like the end of a pen or fingernails. You should also tell your dentist if you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. The grating of the teeth against each other generates pressure that could harm veneers and other dental work.
If you do sustain damage to your veneers, let your dentist know as soon as you can. Your underlying teeth might be exposed and vulnerable to dental dangers in the wake of this damage. The dentist will likely ask you to come to their office for urgent repairs or replacements.
How Long Will Veneers Enhance My Smile?
Many patients seeking cosmetic enhancement in their smiles appreciate porcelain veneers because the treatment is long-lasting and highly effective. The durable shells and sturdy bonding ensure the fixtures will remain on the teeth for an extended period. With proper care and maintenance, veneers will last for fifteen or more years.
Veneers will also resist staining and decay. But you should still take care of your oral health for optimal results from this cosmetic dental treatment. This means practicing good oral hygiene: brushing teeth twice per day and flossing daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching your veneers.