Is Cosmetic Dentistry Painful?

Everyone wants to be confident about their smile, but many of us have cosmetic flaws that litter our teeth. Fortunately, you don’t need to settle for less when it comes to your pearly whites. There are a variety of cosmetic options out there that can help you achieve a smile that you’re proud to show off. However, many patients are hesitant to commit to treatment because there are worried that it’ll be painful. Here’s what you should know.

Will Cosmetic Dentistry Hurt?

Many people are apprehensive when it comes to going to the dentist, even for cosmetic treatment, due to their fear of experiencing pain. Fortunately, your dental team will do everything in their power to give you the most comfortable experience possible regardless of the treatment that you’re undergoing. Plenty of cosmetic treats are noninvasive and for others, anesthetics are used to ensure that you don’t feel any discomfort throughout the duration of your treatment. If there is anything that your dentist can do to make you feel more comfortable during your procedure, all you need to do is ask!

Which Dental Treatments Are Available?

Some of the most popular cosmetic treatments out there involve little to no discomfort at all. Here are a few of them:

• Teeth Whitening: Professional teeth whitening is entirely customized, so you can expect to have a comfortable experience. Some patients experience mild sensitivity afterward, but this generally subsides after a short period of time.
• Veneers: It usually takes two appointments for veneers to be placed. During your first visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth by filing down a minimal portion of your enamel to ensure that the veneers lay flat against the line of your smile. During this time, you will likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once your teeth have been prepped, impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab. During your next visit, your permanent veneers will be placed. You may experience some soreness and sensitivity afterward, but this should be mild and temporary.
• Dental Bonding: Direct bonding involves using a composite resin to correct chips, gaps, stains, and small cracks. Usually, this procedure is completely painless and doesn’t require the use of a local anesthetic. It is completed in just one appointment.
• Invisalign: Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to slowly shift your teeth to their new, aligned positions. This treatment is not painful, but it is common to experience soreness after switching to your next set of aligners. If needed, this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen.

Don’t let your fear of pain get in the way of achieving your dream smile! You have nothing to worry about. Your dentist will do everything they can to ensure that you have a pleasant, pain-free experience!

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis earned her dental doctorate from the UConn School of Dental Medicine and is committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. She has completed advanced training focused on dental implants, TMJ therapy, cosmetic dentistry, and Invisalign. For more information or to schedule an appointment at her office in West Hartford, visit her website or call (860) 236-4249.