Expectations from Veneers Treatment

Looking for a dental treatment that will give you both a brighter and straighter smile? Porcelain veneers from your dentist use custom-made shells that attach to the front of your teeth to enhance the look of your smile according to your aesthetic goals.

Though the cosmetic benefits of this treatment seem clear, some dental patients feel nervous about undergoing dental work. To alleviate potential dental fear, you can learn what to expect from this dental solution. Read on to find responses from your Durham, NC dentist to frequently asked questions about the porcelain veneer procedure.

what to expect with porcelain veneers cosmetic dental treatment

Porcelain Veneers Procedure FAQs

Will Porcelain Veneers Hurt?

A major reason people feel anxious about going to their dentist is the anticipation of pain during dental work. You can feel rest assured that the porcelain veneer procedure will not hurt. Your dentist prioritizes patient comfort during this process.

You begin this treatment with your dentist preparing the surface of your teeth. This involves etching into the enamel of the teeth to make it easier for the bonding to stick. The dentist gives you a local anesthetic to numb the area and ensure you do not feel discomfort during this process.

You will also not feel pain at all as the dentist attaches the veneers to the teeth with bonding. Some patients may feel slight sensitivity when they first receive the veneers. But this symptom will fade within a few days.

If you do feel pain after receiving your veneers, let your dentist know because this is an abnormal reaction. They can make adjustments to ensure your veneers fit, feel, and function as they should.

Can Porcelain Veneers Break?

Dentists build porcelain veneers to withstand the wear and tear of chewing and biting that your teeth regularly experience. But though durable, veneers are not indestructible. Under high pressure, veneers might crack, dislodge, or break.

If this occurs, this could leave the underlying teeth vulnerable to potential dental dangers like decay. You should contact your dentist as soon as possible if you sustain damage to your veneers to avoid harming your smile.

You will likely need to attend an emergency dentist appointment to receive urgent repairs or replacements for broken veneers. To avoid this dental damage, follow aftercare guidelines from your dentist.

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Remain on Teeth?

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can provide smile enhancement benefits for fifteen years or longer. These fixtures can last this long because of the hard and strong ceramic material combined with the secure bonding.

You can ensure the veneers last for as long as possible by continuing good oral hygiene habits. While veneers resist decay and staining, they can still garner plaque that will spread to other parts of your mouth. If plaque eats away at your smile, your veneers might no longer fit properly.

So brush your teeth twice a day at least and floss daily. You can avoid damaging your veneers by steering clear of biting hard items like fingernails or the end of a pen too.