Modern cosmetic dentistry offers a number of different procedures that can dramatically change the appearance of your smile. But do cosmetic dentistry procedures hurt? In this article, we answer this question and discuss what to expect from cosmetic procedures.
Do Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures Hurt?
There are a variety of cosmetic dental procedures, including dental bonding, veneers, implants, orthodontic treatments, etc. Some of them cause more discomfort than others. The level of discomfort from each procedure also depends on the patient’s pain tolerance and oral sensitivity.
That said, patients rarely feel pain during cosmetic or other more intensive dental procedures because the dentist typically uses a local anesthetic or sedation for procedures that might cause pain. However, some cosmetic dental procedures can cause pain or discomfort after they are finished and the anesthetic wears off, as well as during the recovery period.
Let us look at different cosmetic dental procedures and what you can expect from them:
Teeth Whitening
In the majority of cases, a teeth whitening procedure does not cause any pain. You might experience slight tooth sensitivity to changes in the temperature of food and drinks for several days after the procedure. The sensitivity is typically caused by bleach, which is sometimes used during the procedure. It makes the enamel a bit more porous and penetrates the tooth to destroy the dark pigment within. Once the enamel returns to its regular state, the feelings of tooth sensitivity should go away completely.
Dental Veneers
The procedure of getting dental veneers is not painful. During the procedure, a small amount of the tooth’s enamel is removed so that the veneer can fit comfortably and snugly. Then, a thin porcelain shell is attached to the entire front side of the tooth with a dental adhesive. Similar to teeth whitening, the procedure of dental veneers can cause tooth sensitivity for several days after the treatment, but it is not permanent.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is often performed without the use of a local anesthetic since the procedure does not require the doctor to work near the nerves of the teeth. Thus, the procedure rarely causes any discomfort or pain.
During the procedure, your doctor will use resin composite material to restore cracked, chipped, discolored, or unevenly shaped teeth. The material is applied to a slightly roughened enamel and then shaped according to the needs and goals of the patient. There is a possibility of temporary tooth sensitivity after dental bonding.
Dental Implants
Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure that involves installing a metal post directly into the jawbone. The procedure is generally completed with the use of local anesthetic or sedation, so it likely will not cause any significant pain. However, most patients experience some soreness, pain, and swelling during the recovery period that can last a couple of weeks. These symptoms can be remedied with over-the-counter painkillers and cold compresses.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments are aimed at repositioning the teeth in the mouth and making the smile more unified. Such treatments are not completed during one appointment. Rather, they can take anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the severity of the case.
The procedure of getting an orthodontic appliance, such as braces or Invisalign, is typically not painful or uncomfortable. However, since your orthodontic appliance will apply pressure to your teeth and prompt the shifting of their position in your mouth, you will most likely experience moderate toothache and soreness at different times throughout the treatment.
How Can Sedation Dentistry Help
If you experience severe anxiety due to an upcoming dental procedure or have a high tolerance to local anesthetics, talk to your doctor about sedation dentistry options. Sedation dentistry comes in several forms, including:
- Oral sedation (a pill taken by mouth)
- Nitrous oxide (inhaled via a mask)
- Intravenous sedation
- General anesthesia
The purpose of sedation dentistry is to make the patient calm and relaxed during the procedure. Some types of sedation can even help you fall asleep during the procedure and will leave you with little to no memory of it. As a result, the procedure can be comfortable and absolutely painless.
Make an Appointment Today
Upgrade your smile and boost your self-confidence with one of Encino Family Dental’s cosmetic dentistry services. Our expert team utilizes a comprehensive approach in every dental situation and will carefully examine your oral health to establish the best treatment for your case. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental office.
