Smiling is an important activity that many people may not consider “essential.” Few behaviors can express our feelings of joy or boost our endorphins instantly. Many things might keep us from smiling, especially if we are self-conscious about our smile. If you have been thinking about fixing your smile, perhaps dental veneers have crossed your mind.
Veneers are an excellent way to achieve the smile you desire. They can give you a smile that you are proud of and want to show off to the world. However, one concern you may have is, “do veneers hurt?” The answer is: no! Getting dental veneers is a minimally invasive procedure, so you won’t have to worry about recovering from major surgery.
Because of the nature of the procedure, you may experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. However, this should be mild and temporary. In addition, there are kinds of toothpaste available that can alleviate your discomfort. Importantly, you won’t feel any significant pain or discomfort from veneers as long as there are no complications.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells, usually made of porcelain or composite resin, placed on the outer layer of your teeth. Veneers correct several dental problems, including discolored teeth, crooked teeth, or unwanted tooth spacing. Generally, veneers are the solution to cosmetic issues rather than restorative ones. For example, veneers cannot replace missing teeth. They can only be placed on healthy teeth to alter their physical appearance.
Dental veneers are custom-made for your mouth and your teeth. Your dentist can give you different styles and color options to your preferences. After your veneers are placed and cured, you are ready to go. Veneers require the same oral care routine as your natural teeth. You must floss and brush as recommended in order to make your veneers last.
What is the Process?
After you decide on veneers, your dentist will need to ensure that you are a good candidate. It is vital that you generally have healthy teeth and gums to receive veneers. If you have gum disease or tooth decay, a cosmetic option may not be suitable for you. Veneers need a healthy, stable surface to reside, which means behaviors like teeth grinding are inappropriate. In addition, you must have an excellent oral health care routine to qualify for veneers.
If you are a good candidate, your dentist will examine your teeth and give you several options for your veneers. Then, you will be able to have the smile of your dreams in just a couple of appointments. First, your dentist will file down a small layer of your enamel to ensure a secure, flush placement. Next, if you use porcelain veneers, your dentist will bond them to your teeth. If you use composite resin, your dentist will layer the resin on your tooth and cure it with a special light.
You should be aware that dental veneers are not permanent structures. Even with dedicated care, veneers will only last a few years. Porcelain veneers can last up to 12 years, while composite veneers may only last up to 8 years. Once you go through the process of getting veneers, you will have to keep getting them replaced indefinitely.