Porcelain veneers are a great way to restore your smile. These small, wafer-thin tooth-shaped prosthetics are built to fit perfectly over your existing teeth, replacing them and solving cosmetic issues like minor chips and damage, tooth staining, gaps in your teeth, and more.
But if you’re thinking about getting veneers, you may have some questions about the process. That’s why we’ve put together this FAQ, where we’ll discuss the top 7 most frequently-asked questions about veneers, and give you some more insight into this procedure.
1. Does Getting Dental Veneers Hurt?
No. The process is non-invasive. Your dentist will only have to use a dental drill once, to remove a very thin layer of enamel from your teeth, equal in thickness to the veneer. Your teeth will be numbed throughout this process, which is done so that a seamless fit can be achieved.
2. How Long Does It Take To Get Veneers?
Usually, it only takes two appointments. At your first appointment, your teeth are cleaned and trimmed, and then images are taken of your teeth, and sent to a dental lab where your veneers will be crafted.
The process of getting your veneers made usually takes 2-3 weeks. At your next appointment, your dentist will place them permanently onto your teeth, completing the procedure. So you can expect the entire process to take 2 weeks, up to about a month at the longest.
3. Are Veneers Reversible?
Unfortunately, they are not. Because a thin layer of enamel is removed from your teeth, veneers cannot be reversed. That’s why it’s important to make sure veneers are right for you, before you undergo the procedure.
There are some exceptions, though. In some cases, products like Lumineers – which are only about as thick as a contact lens – can be placed without removing tooth material. This style of veneer is reversible, but typically much more expensive. In addition, this type of veneer cannot be used for all patients.
4. Do Veneers Cause Tooth Sensitivity?
Not permanently. After your teeth are trimmed, you may notice a bit of sensitivity to heat and cold while you’re wearing your temporary veneers. You may also notice an increase in sensitivity immediately after your permanent veneers are applied.
This is temporary. After a few days, you shouldn’t notice any additional sensitivity. As a matter of fact, veneers are sometimes used to treat overly-sensitive teeth, as they protect and cover up the natural tooth structure.
5. Do I Need To Take Any Special Precautions When Caring For My Veneers?
The only thing you need to be concerned with is avoiding the chewing of extremely hard foods (almonds, pistachios, ice) with your front teeth, or chewing on non-food objects like pens and pencils. Any food or item could damage your natural teeth could also damage your veneers, so do your best to avoid these.
Other than that, all you have to do is floss and brush your teeth normally. You don’t need to worry about any other special care precautions.
6. Can Veneers Fall Off?
Yes, but this is very rare. The dental adhesive used to place veneers can typically last for a decade or more. But trauma or damage to your mouth can knock a veneer loose. Don’t worry, though. As long as you recover it, it can be easily re-attached.
7. Will My Veneers Get Stained?
No, unless you neglect your oral health. Porcelain is extremely dense and non-porous, so it’s very difficult to stain. However, if you do not take proper care of your teeth, stains could appear on the margins of the veneer, where it meets your natural tooth.
To avoid this, just brush and floss regularly, and see your dentist for regular teeth cleanings and oral exams.
Veneers – The Best Way To Get Your Dream Smile
If you’re interested in restoring your smile, veneers are a great way to do so. They’re affordable, non-invasive, and long-lasting. Hopefully, this article has been helpful, and has answered some of your questions about veneers.
If you have more concerns, we recommend contacting your dentist directly, and scheduling a consultation so that you can understand if veneers are right for you.