You’ve been wanting to fix your chipped and stained teeth for a while now, and dental veneers seem like the perfect solution. After all, what better way to correct flawed teeth than by simply covering them up? There’s just one problem: some enamel must be removed from your teeth so the veneers can bond to them. You might be worried that veneers could cause sensitive teeth in Jacksonville. But do they? Keep reading to find out!
Veneers May Cause (Temporary) Tooth Sensitivity
To ensure your veneers fit comfortably, your dentist shaves off a layer of enamel that’s about as thin as a fingernail from the teeth in question. Enamel protects the underlying layer of the tooth, called dentin, which contains microscopic tubules that connect to the nerve in the tooth’s center. When these tubules are exposed to hot or cold temperatures, the nerve fires off pain signals to the brain.
Without sufficient enamel, your teeth could become unbearably sensitive. Fortunately, veneers in Jacksonville replace this lost structure and shield the dentin from pain caused by extreme temperatures. That being said, your teeth may feel sensitive after your veneers are placed, but any discomfort should wear off after a week or two at most. If it doesn’t, call your dentist immediately.
Alleviating Sensitive Teeth After Getting Veneers
Even though the increased tooth sensitivity from veneers doesn’t last long, it can be uncomfortable. These tips can help:
- Be selective about what you eat and drink – It should go without saying that when you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, you should avoid particularly hot or cold foods and beverages, such as ice cream and coffee. However, acidic items can also aggravate sensitive teeth. So, try to stay away from citrus fruits, sodas, and the like.
- Take mild pain medication if needed – In most cases, taking a single dose of an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, should be enough to mitigate painful tooth sensitivity.
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater – Swishing a glass of warm saltwater around in your mouth can soothe irritation.
Are Veneers Right for You?
As one of the most versatile cosmetic dental treatments, veneers can benefit many people. Whether your teeth are cracked, discolored, gapped, misshapen, or even slightly crooked, there’s a good chance that veneers can create a flawless smile. However, your teeth might not be able to support veneers if they have lost too much enamel. Your teeth should also be free of decay or infection before veneers can safely be placed. Ultimately, your cosmetic dentist is the best person to determine whether you’re a good candidate for veneers.
If you’re thinking about getting veneers but worried about possible sensitivity, don’t be. Your dentist can set your mind at ease and provide tips for powering through the adjustment period. Then, you’ll have a confident, pain-free smile before you know it!
About the Authors
Our team at Jacksonville Complete Dentistry is led by Dr. Rose Johnson and Dr. Wayne Barker, two compassionate dentists who take a full-body approach to dental care. With our convenient office location, comprehensive treatments, and simple payment options, we’re proud to exceed our patients’ expectations. We offer stunning veneers and, if you’re dealing with truly painful sensitivity, same-day emergency appointments. To learn more about what to expect when getting veneers, contact us by calling 904-645-6457.