Adjusting to Porcelain Veneers
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February 26, 2019
If you want to have a smile that looks great, Chicago, IL cosmetic dentist Dr. William J. Couvelis may suggest porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are a versatile smile makeover option, able to treat stains, chips, cracks, gaps, and minor misalignments. We have been able to revitalize smiles at North Pier Dental Assoc., P.C. thanks to just a few porcelain veneers.
While effective, there are a few minor side effects that patients experience as they adjust to their porcelain veneers. Let’s go over these and offer some tips on adjusting to your new veneers below.
How Porcelain Veneers Are Placed
To understand why there is an adjustment period for porcelain veneers, let’s first consider how veneers are placed.
In order to accommodate the porcelain veneer, a small amount of enamel (less than 1mm) must first be removed from the tooth. The porcelain veneer is placed over the prepped tooth, with the veneer material essentially replacing the removed enamel.
Since some enamel is removed, the tooth that has been prepped will be slightly more sensitive than usual until it adjusts to the veneer being in place.
Common Porcelain Veneer Issues
The most common issues that patients experience when they first get a porcelain veneer include:
- Tooth Sensitivity - When a veneer is placed, a patient may notice increased sensitivity of that tooth for a little bit of time.
- Changes in Mouth Feel - Whenever a new dental appliance is placed, it can feel a bit strange in the mouth and can take a little getting used to.
- Speech Impediments - If your veneers filled a tooth gap or other spacing or alignment issue, it can make speaking a different experience.
How Long Is the Adjustment Period?
Thankfully, the adjustment period for all of these problems is very brief. Most patients only deal with the above issues for about two weeks, give or take.
Even though these issues are just temporary, there is much that can be done in order to make the adjustment process much easier for you.
Tips for Adjusting to Porcelain Veneers
Stick with Soft Foods at First
After you first get your veneers, consider having a diet that predominantly consists of soft foods. This will help you bite and chew with ease, and will not put excessive pressure on the new veneers.
Avoid Hot and Cold Temperature Food Items
Hot and cold temperatures can result in tooth sensitivity early on. Because of this, it’s a good idea to stick with lukewarm and room temperature food items. You might even want to use a drinking straw to help bypass the teeth and the new veneers.
Use a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
Just because you have porcelain veneers means you should slack off on your oral hygiene routine. If your toothbrush causes sensitivity while you do a normal cleaning, consider using a toothpaste for people with sensitive teeth. You’d be surprised just how much of a difference this can make.
What If I Still Experience Problems?
If you still experience issues with your veneers, or notice no improvements after a few days, be sure to speak with your dentist. Concerns like these should be addressed in a timely manner just in case it’s a sign of a more serious dental wellness issue.
Learn More About Porcelain Veneers
For more information about porcelain veneers and how they can benefit you, request an appointment with the team at North Pier Dental Associates today.
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