Does Getting Veneers Make Your Teeth Sensitive?

Veneers continue to rank among the most popular cosmetic procedures every year because of their diverse benefits. However, a small amount of enamel must be removed to get veneers. Since your enamel can’t grow back, it’s normal to have concerns about tooth sensitivity, but there’s no reason to worry. Veneers can often help patients with sensitive teeth, and here’s how.

What are Veneers?

A veneer is a thin shell that’s bonded to the front side of a tooth to enhance its size, shape, and color. When applied to the front teeth, veneers can fix many issues at once, like stains, chips, and gaps. 

Veneers can last for a decade or longer because of the unique etching process used to apply them, which involves removing a small amount of enamel. Although this alters your teeth permanently, it does not harm their health or structure and simply ensures that the veneers last.

Veneers and Tooth Sensitivity

Your enamel is the hard outer layer of your tooth that protects the softer dentin and pulp underneath. Thin enamel is a common cause of tooth sensitivity because the barrier between outside elements and the inner layers of your teeth is compromised. 

Potential sensitivity is a common concern for removing enamel for veneers, but they can often prevent discomfort. Adding veneers to your teeth creates an additional layer of protection against hot or cold food and drinks. As a result, some dentists recommend them for patients who have a persistent issue with tooth sensitivity.

The Process for Getting Veneers

You will require a consultation with your cosmetic dentist to determine if veneers are right for you, whether used for cosmetic reasons or to treat sensitivity. They will examine your mouth and learn more about your concerns to create a personalized treatment plan. After any preparatory treatments, like a dental cleaning, you will be scheduled for the first portion of your procedure. 

Your dentist may use a local numbing agent to block any discomfort, but it isn’t always necessary. They will remove a small amount of enamel to ensure your veneers sit flush on your teeth to create a strong bond. After your teeth have been prepped, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to send to the dental lab, where your veneers will be crafted with the utmost precision. 

It can take the lab a couple of weeks to make your veneers, so your dentist will apply temporary ones while you wait. They will protect your teeth and allow you to “try on” your new smile. Once the lab sends your veneers back to your dentist’s office, you’ll return to have them bonded to your teeth.

Your dazzling new smile can last for a decade or more with the proper care, like brushing and flossing. You’ll boost your self-esteem and improve tooth sensitivity using one of the most popular solutions in cosmetic dentistry.

About Dr. Corey Martinez

Dr. Martinez earned his dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has regularly pursued continuing education in many specialties, including cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery, and endodontics. He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and several other professional organizations. If you’re interested in veneers, request an appointment through our website or call (765) 358-5774.