Looking for a way to enhance the appearance of your teeth that will prove long-lasting and effective? Porcelain veneers use custom-made durable shells that attach to the front of the teeth. This results in a brighter, straighter, and fuller look to the smile that can suit your unique aesthetic goals.
Despite their clear advantages, some people might worry about undergoing dental work to receive veneers. Knowing more about this treatment can help you feel at ease during your dental appointment. To alleviate lingering dental fear, read on to find responses from your dentist regarding the porcelain veneer procedure.
Do Porcelain Veneers Hurt?
One of the primary reasons people feel dental fear is the anticipation of pain during a procedure. You can feel calmer knowing that your dentist will prioritize your comfort when you receive porcelain veneers and that the treatment will not hurt.
To prepare the teeth for veneers, your dentist must etch into the tooth enamel. But they will numb the area first with a local anesthetic so that you will not feel anything. If you still feel anxious, ask your dentist about sedation dentistry options that can induce relaxation in the dental chair.
The placement of the custom veneers will not hurt either as the dentist secures them to the teeth within bonding. Some people may feel slight sensitivity directly after receiving the veneers, but this feeling should fade within a few days on its own. If you do feel pain from your veneers, this is abnormal, and you should tell your dentist right away.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Dentists design porcelain veneers to withstand the wear and tear from chewing and biting without issue. But these fixtures are not completely indestructible. If exposed to high amounts of pressure, veneers could crack or dislodge from the tooth.
If this occurs, the seal of the veneer breaks, making the underlying tooth vulnerable to decay and other dental dangers. So if you sustain damage to your veneers, do not ignore the problem. Call your dentist as soon as you can.
They will likely ask you to come to their office to repair or replace the broken veneers. Pay attention to your smile and your dental fixtures to avoid harming your dental work.
How Long Will Porcelain Veneers Last?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can remain in place over your teeth for fifteen or more years. But this will mean you have to practice good oral habits to care for your dental fixtures.
This includes at-home efforts like proper oral hygiene. Though veneers resist staining and decay, they still garner plaque that could spread to the rest of your mouth if it lingers on your smile. This could create dental problems that will impact the fit of your veneers.
Make sure you visit your dentist for routine teeth cleanings and oral exams as well. They can check that your veneers fit and function as they should during these appointments. Follow preventative care tips from your dentist to maximize the cosmetic dental benefits from your veneers.