Getting veneers is a common cosmetic dental procedure that can improve the look of your teeth. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite material that are bonded to the front of teeth. Permanent veneers usually require some removal of your natural tooth structure, which means the procedure is irreversible. A key question many people have is whether getting permanent veneers will hurt.
Do veneers hurt when they are put on?
Getting veneers is not a completely pain-free process, but the amount of pain or discomfort varies significantly between patients. Here’s an overview of the veneer procedure and what you may feel at each step:
Numbing
Your dentist will first numb the teeth getting veneers with a local anesthetic. You’ll get injections in your gums around the teeth. The numbing shots may sting or pinch briefly. But once the anesthetic takes effect, your teeth will be numb and you shouldn’t feel anything.
Preparing the teeth
After your teeth are numb, your dentist will remove a thin layer off the front surface of your teeth. This is done to allow room for the veneer shells to be bonded on. Your dentist may use a drill, laser, or other tools to remove anywhere from 0.3mm to 0.5mm of enamel. You may hear the tools or feel some vibration or pressure on your teeth. But with the numbing, you should not feel any real discomfort.
Taking impressions
Your dentist will take impressions of your prepared teeth. This involves biting down into a putty-like material to get an exact mold of your teeth. This process should not be painful.
Bonding the veneers
At a follow-up appointment, your new custom-made veneers will be bonded onto your teeth with a special adhesive. Your dentist will etch the veneers and teeth to roughen them up, then apply a bonding agent before precisely placing each veneer. A curing light is used to harden the adhesive. You may feel some pressure as the veneers are put on, but this step is typically painless.
Overall, while you may feel some minor discomfort at times, the entire veneer process is made comfortable with effective numbing. Any aching should be minimal once the anesthetic wears off.
Do veneers hurt afterwards?
It’s common to have some sensitivity or soreness for a few days after getting veneers placed. This is normal as your teeth and gums adjust to the veneers. Here’s what to expect:
Temperature sensitivity
Your veneered teeth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures for a couple days. This should resolve as your teeth get used to the veneers.
Pressure sensitivity
Some tenderness or ache may occur when you bite down, especially when eating. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods at first to minimize discomfort.
Gum soreness
Your gums around the veneered teeth may feel tender or bruised from retraction and the procedures done. Proper oral hygiene can help soothe this.
Pain medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage any achiness or pain as you recover.
Duration
Discomfort after getting veneers usually peaks in the first 1-2 days and gradually improves over 3-7 days. Tell your dentist if pain persists beyond a week.
Factors affecting pain with veneers
Some factors that can influence the amount of pain or discomfort felt with veneers include:
Amount of tooth reduction
The more enamel that is removed to prepare the teeth, the more sensitivity may occur afterwards. More reduction also increases risk of nerve exposure, which can be painful.
Veneer material
Porcelain veneers require more tooth reduction than composite veneers. Composite resins bond directly to teeth with less drilling, so they may result in less pain.
Adhesive type
Self-adhesive resin cements may help minimize post-procedure sensitivity compared to other bonding options.
Individual pain tolerance
Each person has a different pain threshold. Some tolerate dental work better than others. Discuss any concerns with your dentist.
Oral hygiene
Poor oral hygiene and existing dental issues like decay or gum disease can make veneer procedures more uncomfortable.
Your dentist’s skill
An experienced cosmetic dentist will use meticulous techniques to ensure a painless veneer process.
Tips to minimize veneer pain
Here are some tips to help reduce discomfort when getting veneers:
Choose an expert dentist
Go to a dentist with specialized training in cosmetic dentistry and veneers. Their precision will help avoid unnecessary pain.
Get a dental exam first
Take care of any cavities, infections, or gum disease before veneers to avoid complicating factors.
Use dental anesthesia
Ensure your dentist uses sufficient local anesthesia during the procedure to numb your teeth.
Take over-the-counter pain medication
Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed after the procedure can help manage soreness.
Avoid certain foods temporarily
Stick to soft foods and avoid very hot/cold foods for a few days to limit sensitivity.
Practice good oral hygiene
Gentle brushing and flossing will keep your teeth and gums healthy after veneers.
Wear a night guard if needed
Clenching or grinding can put extra pressure on new veneers. A night guard can help prevent this.
Return for follow-up visits
See your dentist as recommended so they can check your bite and comfort levels.
Conclusion
While veneers should not be an extremely painful procedure, some discomfort is normal both during and afterwards. Working with an experienced cosmetic dentist and taking care of your teeth properly before and after veneers can help minimize pain. Using numbing and taking pain relievers as needed will also keep you comfortable. In most cases, sensitivity is mild and temporary as you adjust to your new smile.
