Thinking about improving your smile with dental veneers? This is a very important decision that a dentist can help you make. Veneers can help transform your appearance and boost your self-confidence. If you are seriously considering getting veneers or have just had them placed, you are probably wondering what to expect during the crucial first month. Knowing what to expect during the adjustment period can help you prepare for the changes and discomfort that naturally come after veneers are placed.
What Is the First Month with Veneers Like?
The First Few Days: Getting Used to Change
Be prepared to experience some mild sensitivity or discomfort right after your dentist places your veneers. Remember, your teeth and gums have just undergone a procedure, so they may need some time to settle and adjust to the veneers. Common experiences of patients include:
- Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
- This typically happens as your teeth adjust to the bonding process. This usually resolves within a week.
- Tender Gums
- The gum tissue around your veneers may feel sore or swollen at first. There is no need to worry if this happens.
- Slight Speech Changes
- Your newly placed veneers will slightly reshape or lengthen your teeth, and you may notice a slight lisp or a change in the way you pronounce words. This problem usually resolves within a few days as your mouth adapts to the change.
To manage sensitivity to temperature changes and gum tenderness, try using a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth and a soft-bristled toothbrush to reduce irritation. It will be best to stick to lukewarm or room-temperature foods and drinks. Rinsing with warm salt water a few times a day can help soothe inflammation if your gums feel sore. You may also ask your dentist for over-the-counter pain relievers if you need medication to ease your discomfort.
During this time, it is best to avoid putting stress on your veneers, so dentists often recommend sticking to soft foods like yogurt, soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and eggs.
Weeks 1-2
Biting, chewing, and talking may feel a little different as your teeth adjust, but you will become more accustomed to how your teeth feel while eating and brushing. Be observant of any spots where your teeth do not feel even or where you can sense any discomfort while chewing. It is important that you contact your dentist right away if something does not feel right. This will enable your dentist to assess your bite and make any necessary adjustments promptly.
Weeks 3-4
You will now be fully accustomed to the feel, shape, and size of your veneers. They will start to feel like a natural part of your teeth. You should establish a consistent oral care routine, taking into consideration your new veneers. While veneers do not decay, the teeth underneath them still can. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene remains crucial. Remember to:
- Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup.
- Use a mouth guard at night if you are prone to teeth grinding.
- Avoid biting into complex objects like pencils, ice, or hard candy to prevent chipping.
Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up visit within the first month to ensure that your veneers fit well and that everything is satisfactory with your gums. Remember to ask your dentist about long-term care during your next appointment.
Possible Warning Signs
While sensitivity, bite adjustments, and mild discomfort are normal during the first month, some signs warrant a call to your dentist.
- Persistent or worsening pain
- When your veneers feel loose or move when you bite
- Bleeding gums
- Any other signs of infection
The first month with your veneers is a time of adjustment. It is normal to feel some discomfort and sensitivity to sudden changes in temperature. Your new veneers will affect the way you bite, chew, and talk. But all these problems will eventually be resolved. At the end of the first month, patients are typically able to eat, speak, and smile as naturally as they did before. Your veneers will give you the confident smile you have always wanted, making all the discomfort worthwhile. If you are interested in getting veneers, consult with a dental veneers specialist who can determine if you are a suitable candidate and explain the process of applying them to your teeth.
