If you don’t like the way your teeth look, you don’t have to worry about painful dental procedures to transform your smile. Your cosmetic dentist will always keep your comfort as their top priority when improving the appearance of your teeth. You won’t feel any pain while in the dentist’s chair, but some cosmetic procedures can cause temporary tenderness. Here’s what you can expect when revamping your pearly whites.
Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Depending on your treatment plan, your cosmetic dentist may use a local numbing medication to block discomfort. At most, you may feel some pressure or unusual sensations, but you won’t have any outright pain. Some patients may also be candidates for sedation dentistry. You won’t feel anything while your dentist works on your teeth. Here’s what you can expect when benefiting from common cosmetic treatments:
- Veneers: Your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel to ensure a veneer sits flush on the front side of your tooth. This does not make your teeth sensitive, but they may be a little sore for a day or two.
- Metal-Free Restorations: Ceramic materials are used to create restorations that look like real teeth. It’s normal to have some slight tenderness for 3 to 5 days.
- Cosmetic Dental Bonding: Cosmetic dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure. Most patients do not require numbing medication when benefiting from the treatment.
- Teeth Whitening: Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity for 24 to 48 hours after a whitening treatment. You can avoid discomfort by not overusing whitening products, including those available over-the-counter.
How to Manage Discomfort
Your cosmetic dentist will explain exactly what you can expect while recovering from cosmetic dentistry. If you experience any discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Applying a cold compress can numb the area and reduce swelling and bruising.
Eat soft foods that require minimal chewing until any tenderness subsides. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water to reduce pain. It is also a natural antiseptic to keep your mouth clean.
Your cosmetic dentist will review any aftercare instructions, depending on your treatment. Although your mouth might be tender for a day or two, it’s a small price to pay to invest in a beautiful smile you’ll want to show off.
About Dr. Kenneth Endres
Dr. Endres earned his dental degree at Howard University and has continued his education in various specialties, including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and sedation dentistry. He has nearly 40 years of experience creating healthy, beautiful smiles. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (860) 288-8119.