One of the most common questions a dentist is asked is: Do veneers feel different from natural teeth? In this article, we address this question and talk about the dental veneer procedure.
Do Veneers Feel Different from Natural Teeth?
You are likely to notice a temporary difference in how veneers feel in the mouth initially. However, you will stop noticing it once you get used to your new veneers, as they are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly and allow you to eat and speak as you usually do. Most patients adapt to their veneers within a couple of days to two weeks.
Additionally, you can expect a temporary increase in sensitivity to cold and hot foods and drinks after getting your veneers. This happens because your teeth are filed down (a portion of enamel is removed) to allow the seamless fit for your veneers. However, this sensitivity should go away within a couple of weeks.
How to Speed Up the Adjustment Period
While it is normal to need a short period of time to get used to your new veneers, there are a few simple steps that can help you adjust more quickly:
- Chew evenly on both sides of your mouth to prevent extra pressure on individual teeth and help your bite feel more natural.
- Avoid hot and cold foods and drinks for the first two weeks to reduce sensitivity.
- Opt for softer foods to minimize pressure and sensitivity.
- Continue practicing good oral hygiene, brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid gum irritation, as gums can be sensitive after the procedure.
- If you notice that your bite feels uneven and the sensation persists beyond the first couple of weeks, notify your dentist. In some cases, minor adjustments should be made to improve the way your bite feels.
How Do Veneers Look and Function
Dental veneers are thin shells that are most commonly made of porcelain. Some veneers can be made of resin composite, but they are less durable and stain-resistant than porcelain veneers.
Veneers cover the entire front of a tooth and can be matched to the color of your natural teeth if necessary (for example, if only one tooth is being treated). Additionally, porcelain is slightly translucent, which makes veneers look very natural in the mouth.
Veneers can be used to solve the following cosmetic issues:
- Restore chipped or cracked teeth.
- Mask stains and discoloration
- Close minor gaps between teeth
- Alter the shape or length of your teeth.
The Procedure of Dental Veneers
The procedure of getting dental veneers consists of several steps:
- First, you will need to discuss your goals with your dentist to determine what cosmetic issues need to be solved and what color your veneers should be.
- The teeth are prepared by removing a portion of their enamel. This step ensures that your veneers fit comfortably and feel natural.
- Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth to help create custom veneers designed with your specific anatomy and needs in mind.
- A set of temporary veneers is applied to your teeth to protect them while the permanent veneers are being prepared.
- Once your permanent veneers are ready, the temporary set is removed, and the permanent ones are securely bonded to your teeth.
The procedure for getting dental veneers typically does not cause significant discomfort, aside from the temporary tooth sensitivity we mentioned earlier.
Get Stunning Veneers at TruGlo Calabasas
If you are considering porcelain veneers, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced cosmetic dentist at TruGlo Calabasas. At our office, we use high-quality materials and modern methods to deliver stunning results to our clients.
