Pain is one of the most common concerns patients have before starting any dental treatment. It’s an entirely valid fear that keeps many patients from achieving smiles they love. The truth is, for most patients, cosmetic dentistry is much more gentle than other kinds of dental treatment. Keep reading to take a realistic look at what different cosmetic procedures feel like and see how your dentist can keep you comfortable.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is one of the most non-invasive procedures available, requiring no tooth prep, no anesthesia, and virtually no recovery time. In fact, the most frequently reported side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity, which can happen during or after treatment.
If you have thin enamel or are prone to sensitivity, make sure to tell your dentist. They can modify the treatment to minimize the aftereffects.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Bonding is generally painless and feels almost like getting a filling. Because the procedure involves applying composite resin to the surface of the tooth rather than removing tooth structure, anesthesia is rarely needed. The most you may feel is some pressure as the resin is molded and a bit of heat from a curing light.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are a little more involved than other cosmetic treatments because their placement requires some tooth preparation. A small amount of enamel is removed from the front of your teeth to ensure the shells bond seamlessly. Local anesthesia is typically used during this step, so you don’t feel any discomfort during your procedure. At most, you may experience some mild sensitivity after placement, but over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to help you manage until it fades.
Gum Recontouring
Because this procedure involves reshaping gum tissue, a local anesthetic is used to keep you comfortable from start to finish. Some tenderness during recovery is normal and manageable with pain relievers and ice packs for swelling.
Comfort during any cosmetic procedure is closely tied to communication. If you bring up your concerns beforehand, ask questions, and let your dentist know how you’re feeling you’ll have a much better experience. A skilled cosmetic dentist can easily adjust their technique based on your feedback and ensure you’re comfy from start to finish.
About the Author
Dr. Carlisle Vason earned his dental doctorate from the Dental College of Georgia. There, he was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon—the national dental honor society recognizing the top 15 students in each graduating class. He has also completed advanced training at the Pankey Institute and serves on its Advisory Board. Dr. Vason offers a full range of cosmetic dentistry services to improve your smile with care. Call (404) 367-9799 to schedule an appointment at Vason Family Dentistry of Buckhead or visit our website to learn more about our services.