Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. While popular, experiencing pain or sensitivity after placement is a common concern. Discomfort can range from mild, fleeting sensitivity to a persistent, throbbing ache, and understanding the source is the first step toward relief.
Temporary Post-Bonding Sensitivity
Sensitivity is normal immediately following veneer preparation and bonding. The procedure requires removing a small amount of tooth enamel, typically about 0.5 millimeters, so the veneer sits flush. This reduction temporarily exposes the underlying dentin, which contains microscopic tubules leading directly to the tooth’s nerve.
This temporary sensitivity often manifests as a sharp, fleeting sensation when exposed to extreme temperatures, such as hot coffee or cold air. The discomfort is the nerve reacting to the trauma of preparation and the bonding cement chemicals. For most individuals, this sensitivity subsides within a few days and resolves completely within two to four weeks as the tooth adjusts. Managing mild pain involves using desensitizing toothpaste or temporarily avoiding extreme temperatures.
Structural Issues Related to Veneer Fit
Pain persisting beyond initial healing or feeling mechanical, such as pressure when biting, often indicates a structural issue. One common cause is an issue with the veneer’s margin, the precise edge where the veneer meets the natural tooth structure. If the margin does not create a perfect seal, microscopic gaps allow oral fluids, bacteria, and plaque to seep underneath. This leakage irritates the remaining tooth structure and leads to chronic sensitivity or discomfort.
Another frequent source of pain is occlusal interference, or a misalignment in the patient’s bite. If the veneer is too thick or improperly contoured, it may strike the opposing tooth prematurely when chewing or closing the mouth. This excessive pressure on the veneered tooth translates into pain when biting down or clenching. A dentist can usually resolve this issue with a minor adjustment to restore proper bite alignment.
Discomfort can also result from a bonding failure, where the adhesive cement has failed to hold strongly. A loose or partially debonded veneer allows slight movement, irritating the underlying tooth and creating a pathway for bacteria. A loose feeling or a change in the bite signals this problem, requiring the dentist to promptly re-bond or replace the restoration. Additionally, if the veneer extends too far below the gumline or has a rough edge, it can cause persistent irritation and inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue.
Underlying Dental Problems
Severe, constant pain that worsens over time may indicate a serious biological issue affecting the tooth beneath the veneer. Tooth decay can develop beneath a veneer, especially if margins are compromised or oral hygiene is poor. Because the veneer covers the front surface, decay is often difficult to detect visually until it progresses significantly, causing pain, increased sensitivity to sweets, or a visible dark spot at the edge.
The most concerning source of severe pain is pulpitis, the inflammation of the dental pulp containing the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. Aggressive enamel reduction during preparation can sometimes traumatize the pulp, leading to irreversible inflammation. This condition typically causes deep, persistent, throbbing pain that may wake a person up at night and often does not subside with over-the-counter pain relievers. This pain signals the nerve is dying and requires root canal therapy to eliminate inflammation and save the tooth.
Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) can also cause significant discomfort mistaken for pain coming from the tooth itself. If plaque and tartar accumulate around the veneer’s edges, the resulting gum inflammation causes redness, swelling, and bleeding. As gum recession progresses, the root surface, which lacks enamel, can become exposed, leading to heightened sensitivity. Addressing gum health is necessary to alleviate this discomfort and protect the long-term health of the veneered tooth.
Identifying Serious Symptoms and Next Steps
Distinguishing between normal, temporary sensitivity and a genuine problem is important for seeking appropriate care. While mild sensitivity that subsides quickly is expected, several symptoms indicate the need for an immediate dental evaluation. Any pain that is deep, throbbing, or constant—especially if it spontaneously occurs or wakes you from sleep—is a significant warning sign that the tooth’s nerve is in distress.
Other indicators of a serious issue include:
- Pain that persists for longer than four weeks after veneer placement.
- Visible swelling in the gum tissue around the veneer.
- Dark spots or staining at the edge of the restoration.
- A loose-feeling veneer.
- A bite that suddenly feels uneven or different.
If these symptoms occur, promptly contact your dentist. Only a professional examination, which may include dental X-rays, can accurately diagnose the source of the pain and determine the correct treatment plan.