If you have multiple dental blemishes you’d like to conceal all at once, veneers can be a great and cost-effective solution. But that doesn’t mean they’re for everyone. Like most treatments, veneers can come with some side-effects, and it’s important to be aware of them so you can make an informed decision about your smile. Keep reading, and you’ll learn more about some of the more common effects.
Uncomfortable Sensitivity
Dental veneers are basically thin, porcelain shells that are about 0.5 mm thick. If your dentist adhered them to your teeth without making any alterations, though, they would still stand out and appear bulky next to your natural pearly whites.
To offset this and create a more comfortable fit, your dentist will remove about 0.5 mm of dental enamel from your teeth. This can cause some increased sensitivity, as thinner enamel means the more tender layers of your teeth are exposed. Fortunately, in the vast majority of cases, sensitivity is temporary and usually fades on its own after a few days. If you experience prolonged discomfort, it’s time to contact your dentist!
Uneven Coloration
To a certain extent, developing yellow stains on your teeth is normal. Daily wear and tear simply expose your pearly whites to some not-so-pearly pigments, and over time it will start to show. However, since veneers are made out of stain-resistant porcelain, they discolor at a slower rate than natural teeth. This means you may end up with a two-toned smile.
Veneers don’t respond well to teeth whitening, but there is a way to regain your consistent look. Your dentist can simply whiten your natural teeth, then polish or replace your veneers so that they match the new shade.
Sore Gums
When your dentist places your veneers, they’ll get the shell as close to your gumline as possible. This helps ensure your tooth is well-protected. Sometimes, though, the gums don’t respond well to this intrusion and become irritated. If you experience sore gums after your treatment, know that that’s normal, and your symptoms will likely dissipate. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as necessary, and contact your dentist if inflammation continues after one week.
Overall, dental veneers are considered safe, and the FDA has approved of them for cosmetic dentistry for several years. Consult with your dentist before scheduling your appointment, and they’ll make sure you receive the best smile-enhancing treatment for you!
About the Practice
At Dr. George Salem & Associates, our highly experienced dentists are eager to help patients build their best-fit treatment plans. We believe strongly in the power of cosmetic dentistry to improve your confidence – but we also want you to be confident about your oral health! If you have questions or concerns about dental veneer side-effects, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 781-843-0660 so we can provide you with more information.