Is it Possible for Veneers to Make My Teeth Sensitive?

Veneers can cover up just about any aesthetic issues you may have with your smile, transforming a set of less-than-stellar teeth into the pearly whites you’d always hoped for. As you may know, this involves removing a small portion of your enamel and replacing it with a set of thin porcelain shells.

If you’re interested in getting veneers, the prospect of removing a portion of your enamel may be a little bit intimidating to you—you may wonder if that could make your teeth more sensitive. If you’re curious, here’s what you should know about the prospect of sensitivity when it comes to your veneers. 

Will Veneers Make My Teeth Sensitive?

When you first get your veneers, it’s common to experience a little bit of sensitivity. Your teeth aren’t used to the new cosmetics yet, and it’ll take a little bit before you can feel completely comfortable.

That said, this sensitivity should only be temporary. Long-term, the porcelain on the veneers will take the place of the removed enamel, protecting your teeth. As a result, any lingering sensitivity from the procedure should fade in the next few weeks.

If you find that the sensitivity is enduring, that could be a sign of something significantly wrong with your veneers. In this situation, it’s a good idea to let your dentist know what you’re dealing with.

How to Deal With Tooth Sensitivity

If you’re experiencing a fair amount of tooth sensitivity after getting veneers, that’s completely normal. It’ll fade in time, but until then, there are a few things you can do to ease any discomfort.

For one, over-the-counter pain relievers can be incredibly useful, especially because you aren’t likely to experience all that much sensitivity when you’re just sitting around. A little bit of ibuprofen, taken as directed, should be enough to deal with that.

You can also try avoiding the things that can make your sensitivity feel a little bit worse. Exceedingly hot, freezing cold, incredibly sweet and acidic foods can all be pretty irritating, so cutting back on them for a few weeks until you feel better may be a good idea.

About the Author

Dr. David Rosenfeld became a dentist because he believed in the power of great oral healthcare. It’s enormously gratifying for him to see his patients smile their brightest as a result of his work. Dr. Rosenfeld received his dental degree from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in New York City, and served as the Chief Dental Resident at The Jamaica Hospital and Medical Center in Queens, New York. He is a respected member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

If you have any questions about veneers, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (908) 668-7838.