Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for improving the appearance of stained, chipped, or uneven teeth. While veneers can create a dramatic smile transformation, many patients wonder whether the process will make their teeth sensitive. Understanding why sensitivity can occur—and how long it lasts—can help you feel more confident about your decision.
Why Sensitivity Can Happen After Veneers
To place veneers, your dentist typically removes a small amount of enamel from the front surface of the teeth. This step allows the veneers to sit naturally and blend seamlessly with your smile. Because enamel protects the inner layers of the tooth, its removal can temporarily expose more sensitive areas. As a result, some patients experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods following veneer preparation.
How Common is Veneer-Related Sensitivity?
Sensitivity after getting veneers is fairly common, but it is usually mild and temporary. Most patients notice sensitivity during the first few days or weeks after placement. As your teeth adjust and the bonding materials fully settle, sensitivity typically fades. Long-term or severe sensitivity is uncommon, especially when veneers are placed by an experienced cosmetic dentist.
Temporary Veneers and Sensitivity
During the process, you may wear temporary veneers while your permanent ones are being made. These temporary restorations do not seal the teeth as tightly as permanent veneers, which can make sensitivity more noticeable during this phase. Once the final veneers are bonded, many patients find that sensitivity significantly improves or disappears altogether.
How Dentists Minimize Sensitivity
Cosmetic dentists take several steps to reduce the risk of sensitivity. Advanced techniques, precise enamel removal, and high-quality bonding materials all help protect the tooth. Your dentist may also recommend desensitizing toothpaste before and after the procedure. In some cases, fluoride treatments can be applied to strengthen teeth and reduce discomfort.
What You Can Do to Manage Sensitivity
If you experience sensitivity after getting veneers, there are simple ways to manage it. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for a short time and use a soft-bristled toothbrush with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Good oral hygiene is essential, but brushing gently helps prevent irritation. If sensitivity persists or worsens, contact your dentist so they can evaluate your bite or make adjustments if needed.
When Sensitivity May Be a Concern
While mild sensitivity is normal, ongoing or severe pain is not. Persistent discomfort could indicate issues such as bite misalignment, improper bonding, or underlying tooth problems. Prompt evaluation ensures any concerns are addressed quickly.
Getting veneers may cause temporary tooth sensitivity, but it is usually mild and short-lived. For most patients, the long-term benefits of a brighter, more confident smile far outweigh the brief adjustment period. With proper care and professional placement, veneers can enhance your smile comfortably and safely.
About the Practice
Do you have cosmetic issues you’d like to address? Whether it’s chips, cracks, discoloration or something else, we have the solution for you with veneers at Boston Smile Center! Our veneers can mask a number of aesthetic concerns and are 100 percent custom made for each patient. You’ll get the very best treatment from a Fellow of the International Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics with minimal prep veneers available, too. Schedule an appointment now online or call our Brookline office at (617) 739-1017.