Caring for an Elderly Parent With Special Dental Needs

Avoiding Some Of The Common Drawbacks Of Dental Veneer Placement

26 October 2018

Joe Lawrence

If you want dental veneers, then you likely know that porcelain varieties are the most natural looking. And, these veneers are quite expensive due to their aesthetic appeal. For this reason, you need to think carefully about whether or not you want veneers secured on your teeth. And, unfortunately, there are some drawbacks and side effects that you may experience after veneer placement. Keep reading to learn about a few of them so you can make the most informed decision.

Dental Sensitivities

The veneer process does involve the permanent removal of the dental enamel. This is one of the major drawbacks of the procedure, but the teeth would simply be too thick if the enamel was not thinned out a bit. Thankfully, the enamel is covered, but many people do feel sensitivities due to the enamel removal. And, this is most common when drinking and eating and if foods are quite hot or cold. Typically, the sensitivity is directly related to the exposure of the tooth dentin. And, the dentin will adapt and become far less sensitive over time. 

To help reduce sensitivity issues, make sure you are choosing the thinnest veneers possible. This means only a thin layer of enamel release will be necessary. Also, avoid extremely hot and cold foods for a few weeks after veneer placement. 

If sensitivities continue for some time, make sure to speak with your cosmetic dentist. The professional may be able to suggest a toothpaste that can minimize your discomfort. Also, pain may be coming from a single tooth that requires treatments like a root canal and the placement of a dental crown. 

Color Differences

Most cosmetic dentists will work hard to make sure that an appropriate color is chosen when veneers are ordered and created in a laboratory. Your natural tooth color is considered and so is the ideal color. You are unlikely to receive completely white veneers since this is not natural.

Your natural tooth color will show through the veneers a small amount, especially if you have chosen the thinnest possible tooth coverings. Also, if all of your teeth are not covered with veneers, then there may be a fairly distinct difference between your treated teeth and your natural ones. 

To avoid color variations, make sure that your teeth are whitened several months before treatments start. This is a good way to ensure consistency in the color. Also, ask to look at the veneers when they are placed on the teeth, but before they are glued in place. This can help you to notice color differences so that they can be quickly addressed. 

For more information on cosmetic veneer procedures, contact your local dental office today.

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