If you want a long-lasting, highly effective way to enhance the appearance of your teeth, your dentist might suggest porcelain veneers. These shell-like caps attach to the front of your teeth to construct a whiter and straighter smile according to your aesthetic goals.
Though the benefits seem clear, some people may feel nervous about undergoing dental work. You can feel more at ease in your dentist’s office if you know what to expect from your treatment. Read on to find responses from your dentist in Charlotte, NC to frequently asked questions about the porcelain veneer procedure.
Does the Porcelain Veneers Procedure Hurt?
A primary cause of dental fear is the anticipation of pain during dental work. You can relax before your dentist appointment knowing that receiving porcelain veneers will not hurt.
Your dentist must prepare the surface of the affected teeth, which will involve etching into the enamel so that the bonding resin will better adhere. They will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area so that you can remain comfortable during this process.
Using bonding to attach the custom-made veneers will not hurt either. Some patients might feel slight tooth sensitivity after receiving their veneers. But this symptom should fade within a few days. Pain after this fact is abnormal, and you should let your dentist know about it.
Can Porcelain Veneers Break?
Your dentist designs porcelain veneers to withstand the everyday wear and tear that your teeth endure regularly. But these dental fixtures are not indestructible. If exposed to high amounts of pressure, veneers might break or dislodge from the teeth.
If this occurs, the underlying teeth might be vulnerable to dental dangers that could penetrate the weakened enamel. Consider this incident a dental emergency and call your dentist as soon as you can.
They will likely ask you to come to their office for an urgent replacement of your veneers. To avoid this costly and time-consuming dental work, take care not to bite down on hard items like fingernails or the end of a pen that could harm your veneers.
Talk to your dentist if you have a habit of grinding your teeth too. This behavior generates pressure that could damage your dental work as well.
How Long Will Veneers Remain on My Smile?
With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can remain secure on the teeth providing smile enhancement for fifteen years or more. As mentioned, you will need to pay attention to your oral habits to avoid breaking the veneers.
You should also continue practicing good oral hygiene. Veneers resist decay and staining, but lingering plaque could hurt your underlying teeth. If your natural teeth sustain dental damage, they might not support your veneers as well as they should.
Visit your dentist for routine dental check-ups too for optimal oral hygiene benefits. The dentist can also examine your veneers to make sure they fit and function to the best of their ability.