I was FINALLY able to get my smile makeover. I cannot tell you how many years I have been saving up for this. I got six porcelain veneers and love them so much. The other teeth we just whitened because of the limitations of my budget. I’m thrilled with the results and find myself smiling all the time. The only thing that has me worried is how sensitive the teeth are that have the porcelain veneers. It’s been about five days and everything seems to set them off, especially things that are cold. Is this normal or should I be concerned? If it is normal, how long until I can expect it to ease up?
Melody
Dear Melody,
What Causes the Sensitivity?
I am glad that you love your new smile! There is some normal sensitivity when it comes to having porcelain veneers placed. The bonding process can lead to some sensitivity. In order to prepare the surface of your teeth for the bonding process, your dentist used an acid to etch the surface. This also opens up the tubules in your tooth. That, combined with the bonding agent itself can lead to some tooth sensitivity.
The general recovery time for this is a week or so. Sometimes it is less. Sometimes it is more. Much of that will depend on how sensitive the teeth were before you had the veneers placed. If it takes much longer than that I would recommend seeing your dentist. Occasionally, there could be a problem with the placement that throws off your occlusion, which is how your bite comes together. Your dentist can examine your bite to make sure it is meeting up properly. If it is not, your dentist can do an adjustment to restore the correct alignment.
The most likely scenario, however, is you just need a few more days. In the meantime, you can use a toothpaste that is meant for sensitive teeth.
This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.