Dental veneers are a popular dentistry solution for those seeking to improve the aesthetics of their smile. These thin, custom-made shells cover the front surface of teeth, effectively enhancing their appearance.
Veneers are the best option for addressing a variety of cosmetic dental issues, such as discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignments.
As with any dental procedure, understanding the healing process for veneers is crucial for patients considering this treatment.
In this article, we will discuss what to expect in the first two days following treatment, the general healing timeline, and tips for proper care during healing.
The veneer placement process
In order to understand the stages of healing, we need to explain the process of veneers.
Veneers generally require three visits to our office.
The first appointment is the consultation. During this time, we will discuss your dental concerns and evaluate your oral health to ensure that veneers are the best option for you.
During the second appointment, we will prepare your teeth and take impressions that will be used to create the permanent veneers. Temporary veneers will be applied while your custom permanent veneers are being fabricated.
A couple of weeks later, you will return for your final appointment. At that time, the temporary veneers will be replaced with your permanent ones.
What to expect after getting permanent veneers
It can take one to three weeks for your mouth to adjust to veneers. These are the most common side effects you may experience during that time:
Tooth Sensitivity
Many people experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures in the first few days after getting veneers.
This occurs because a thin layer of enamel is removed during the preparation process. The sensitivity typically peaks in the first few days and gradually subsides.
We recommend sticking to lukewarm foods and drinks for the first couple of weeks after the procedure to prevent sensitivity and using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
General Discomfort
Some patients report mild pain, a dull ache, or discomfort in their teeth and gums following veneer placement. This is usually temporary and subsides within a week or less. If necessary, over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
Gum Irritation or Inflammation
The gum tissues may need time to adjust to the newly placed veneers, so you may experience redness, slight swelling, or tenderness around the gum line where the veneers meet your natural teeth.
Gum irritation is typically minor and your gums should heal and seal around the veneers within about two weeks. Gentle brushing and warm salt water rinses can soothe irritated gums.
Speech Difficulties
The new shape and size of your teeth with veneers can temporarily affect your speech patterns. It is most noticeable when pronouncing certain sounds like ‘s’ and ‘f’. But don’t worry, this is completely normal and should resolve within a few days.
Increased Salivation
Some people may produce more saliva than usual for a short period while getting used to the new veneers in their mouth.
Bite Adjustments
Your bite might feel slightly off at first or you may notice that your teeth come together differently when you close your mouth. This is because the veneers have slightly changed the surface of your teeth.
In most cases, your jaw will naturally adjust to find its new comfortable position within a few days. However, if the bite feels significantly off after a week, you may need to return to the dentist for an adjustment.
These side effects are generally temporary and should subside within a week or two. If any discomfort persists or worsens, contact us for a follow-up appointment.
At Kootenai Dental Group in Coeur d’Alene, ID, Dr. Delwyn Dick, DDS has over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dental treatments like veneers. He is well-equipped to address any concerns or difficulties you may encounter with your veneers.
Average healing time for veneers
Several factors can influence the healing process and adjustment period following veneer placement.
One of the most important factors is the patient’s health and oral hygiene. Individuals in good general health who practice excellent oral hygiene tend to experience quicker healing. Patients with periodontal disease or those who smoke may require a little more time for full recovery.
Another important factor is the number of veneers placed and the extent of tooth preparation that was required. Patients who have undergone more extensive veneer work may need more time to heal and adapt compared to those with minimal alterations.
Tips for proper care during healing
To ensure your veneers last as long as possible, it’s important to care for them properly.
Immediately following the procedure, we recommend brushing them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss them carefully as well.
If you grind your teeth during the night, you should get a new nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
As for long-term maintenance, you should treat your veneers with the same care as your natural teeth.
In other words, maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine of brushing twice daily and regular flossing. Prevent damage by not chewing on hard foods or using your teeth to open packages, crack nuts, or chew on ice.
Every six months, schedule a dental check-up. This allows your dentist to detect and address issues early and can significantly extend the life of your veneers.
If you experience any complications like irritation, pain, swelling, signs of infection, cracks or chips, or any other symptoms, contact your dentist as soon as possible for a check-up. Early intervention is crucial for resolving these problems quickly and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for veneers to settle?
The adjustment period for veneers usually lasts about 1-3 weeks for most patients. During this time, you may experience:
- Slight tooth sensitivity, especially to hot and cold temperatures
- Minor discomfort or soreness in the gums
- Changes in the feel of your bite
- Unfamiliar sensations when chewing
- Temporary speech adjustments
These initial sensations are normal as your mouth adapts to the new shape and feel of the veneers. Most people report feeling fully adjusted to their veneers within 2-3 weeks after placement.
How soon can I eat after veneers?
Patients can eat once the anesthetic wears off, which is typically 1-2 hours after the procedure.
Can I eat normally with new veneers?
During the first week after veneer placement, we recommend eating soft foods and avoiding eating anything that is extremely hot or cold to reduce sensitivity. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods.
After the initial adjustment period, you can eat normally with veneers. However, to protect your veneers, do not use your front teeth to bite into very hard foods, like apples or nuts. Avoid other foods like candies, popcorn kernels, and ice as these could chip or crack the veneers as well.
Be careful with tough meats or foods that require a lot of chewing force.
Finally, keep in mind that acidic and dark-colored foods and drinks can stain the veneers, so limit those.
We recommend cutting hard foods into smaller pieces rather than biting directly with the front teeth, chewing with your back teeth when possible, and rinsing or brushing after consuming pigmented foods and drinks.
Can you go back to your natural teeth after veneers?
Veneers are considered a permanent solution for enhancing teeth because they require a minimal layer of enamel to be removed. However, their reversibility largely depends on the type of veneers you have and the condition of the underlying teeth. In this article, we discuss this question in detail.
At Kootenai Dental Group in Coeur d’Alene, ID, our experienced dentist, Dr. Delwyn Dick, DDS, offers tailored dental treatments to help you achieve the smile of your dreams and maintain optimal oral health.
Call Kootenai Dental Group at 208-762-8750 today to schedule your consultation and learn how veneers can transform your smile. Our team is happy to provide all the information you need about veneers and other alternative treatments like dental implants and bridges, so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your dental goals.