The road to perfect teeth is easier than you think with porcelain veneers leading the way in cosmetic dentistry. With just a few appointments, you can transform your smile into one you love that brings you confidence in everything you do. After all, first impressions count and you want yours to shine. Whether you’re struggling with discolouration, misalignment, or imperfections, veneers can leave you with a straight, natural set of pearly whites. One big concern many have before going this route is teeth sensitivity. It’s natural for those prone to sensitivity to find sitting in the dentist’s chair extra daunting. Here’s why porcelain veneers are the perfect choice, how they work and what Brighton East residents should know before making a decision.
Understanding Teeth Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersenstivity, is a common condition that affects many people in Brighton East and beyond. It occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth wears away, exposing the underlying layer of dentin. This can lead to discomfort or pain when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks, or even when brushing or flossing.
There are several causes of teeth sensitivity, including:
- Enamel Erosion: Over time, the enamel, which acts as a shield for your teeth, can wear away due to acidic foods, improper brushing, or grinding your teeth.
- Gum Recession: When the gums pull back from the teeth, the tooth roots become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity.
- Tooth Decay: Cavities or cracks in teeth can create openings that expose nerve endings inside the tooth.
For those in Brighton East who struggle with teeth sensitivity, simple joys like an ice-cold drink or biting into a hot meal can be uncomfortable. This is where porcelain veneers offer a solution by acting as a protective barrier, shielding the sensitive areas of the teeth.
How Porcelain Veneers Work
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells made from high-quality porcelain designed to cover your teeth’ front. They are bonded to the teeth to offer a natural-looking solution for issues like stains, chips, or misalignment. The process involves a few steps to ensure a perfect fit and beautiful, lasting results.
Step 1: Consultation and Planning
During your initial consultation with a dentist at our Brighton East Dental & Skin Clinic, we will take a look at the condition of your teeth and discuss your aesthetic goals. This is the time to share any concerns you have about teeth sensitivity. We will help determine if porcelain veneers are the right option for you, and work with you to plan the desired look for your smile.
Step 2: Preparing the Teeth
The goal of porcelain veneers is to keep as much of your original tooth structure intact as possible. We typically shave away a small amount to ensure that the veneer fits perfectly and bonds seamlessly with your natural teeth. This preparation process is very minimal and managed carefully for those with sensitive teeth to avoid any discomfort.
Step 3: Customising the Veneers
Once the teeth are prepared, impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental lab. At the lab, our skilled technicians create the porcelain veneers to match the shape, size, and colour of your natural teeth. The goal isn’t white and bright, but instead to blend with your natural smile.
While your veneers are being crafted, your dentist will fit you with temporary veneers to protect your teeth from sensitivity while you wait.
Step 4: Bonding the Veneers
Once the custom veneers are ready, our dentist will check the fit and alignment and whether or not the veneers are meeting your aesthetic goals, making minor adjustments before bonding them. Once ready, a special dental cement is used to position the veneer onto your tooth before a special light is used to cure it.
Step 5: Final Check and Aftercare
The final result is a set of beautiful, natural-looking veneers that are designed to last for many years with proper care. For those with sensitive teeth, porcelain veneers act as a barrier, protecting the nerves from temperature changes and taking away discomfort.
Why Porcelain Veneers Are a Great Option for Sensitive Teeth
For those with sensitive teeth in Brighton East, porcelain veneers not only improve your smile, but offer plenty of practical benefits as well.
- Protective Barrier for Sensitive Teeth: Porcelain veneers act as a protective shield for teeth that are prone to sensitivity. When your teeth are covered with a veneer, the layer of porcelain serves as a barrier between your sensitive tooth surface and external stimuli like hot, cold, or acidic foods. This can significantly reduce the discomfort, allowing you to enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without worry.
- Custom Fit for Comfort: Porcelain veneers are custom-designed for each patient, ensuring they fit perfectly and comfortably over the natural teeth. For those who suffer from sensitivity due to misalignment or small cracks, this precise fit reduces any irritation that may occur from rough or uneven tooth surfaces.
- Durability and Longevity: Porcelain is a durable, long-lasting material that resists staining and wear. Unlike other materials, porcelain maintains its strength and appearance over time, making it a reliable solution for sensitive teeth.
- Minimal Impact on Tooth Structure: The process of applying porcelain veneers involves removing a very small amount of tooth enamel. By protecting the remaining enamel, porcelain veneers offer a less invasive solution compared to other dental treatments.
- Addressing Sensitivity from Multiple Causes: Whether your sensitivity is due to enamel erosion, gum recession, or even teeth grinding, porcelain veneers can address these issues by covering the affected areas. For Brighton East residents, veneers provide an all-in-one solution to combat various causes of sensitivity, offering a comprehensive approach to improving both comfort and appearance.
Can Porcelain Veneers Cause Teeth Sensitivity?
A common concern for patients considering porcelain veneers in Brighton East is whether the procedure might cause or worsen teeth sensitivity.
The short answer is no, porcelain veneers will not cause tooth sensitivity.
When applied by a skilled dentist, the process will improve comfort, and not cause additional discomfort. Sensitivity typically arises when there is improper bonding or an ill-fitting veneer, leading to gaps or an uneven surface that could irritate the tooth. However, when the veneer fits perfectly and is properly bonded, there should be minimal to no discomfort.
It’s common to experience mild sensitivity following the application of porcelain veneers. A small amount of enamel is removed during the preparation stage, which may temporarily expose the inner layer of the tooth, which can lead to sensitivity. This is short-lived and will disappear as the tooth heals.
Managing Sensitivity After Getting Veneers
Here are some practical tips for Brighton East patients to help manage sensitivity after the procedure:
- Use desensitising toothpaste: These special formulas contain ingredients to block pain signals from the tooth’s nerve endings, reducing sensitivity.
- Avoid hot and cold foods and drinks: Immediately after the procedure, your teeth may be more sensitive to extreme temperatures. It’s a good idea to avoid hot or cold foods and drinks for a short period.
- Be gentle: For the first few days or weeks after getting your veneers, be extra gentle when brushing your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your teeth and gums.
- Give it time: In most cases, any post-procedure sensitivity from porcelain veneers will subside within a few days to weeks. Give your teeth the chance to adjust to the veneers. If the sensitivity persists or worsens beyond the initial healing period, it’s important to reach out to your dentist.
- Schedule regular check-ups: After your veneers are applied, regular check-ups with your dentist are essential to check the condition of your veneers and address any concerns, including sensitivity.
For Brighton East residents looking for a solution to sensitive teeth, porcelain veneers may just be the answer you’ve been searching for. Reach out to Dental & Skin Clinic to find out more and schedule a consultation today.
