Is getting veneers painful? What should I expect during and after the appointment?

The short answer is that the procedure is not painful. Local anaesthesia is applied before any preparation begins, and the sensation during the appointment is similar to having a standard filling placed. The numbing takes effect quickly and lasts throughout the session. Most patients report feeling pressure but no discomfort.

Because our approach is minimally invasive, the preparation is limited to the outermost layer of enamel. This is clinically significant: the closer the preparation gets to the dentine and pulp, the more post-procedure sensitivity a patient tends to experience. By staying shallow, we reduce the risk of sensitivity considerably. Most patients find that any mild soreness or tooth sensitivity resolves within two to three days after the appointment.

The temporary veneers placed while your final ceramic restorations are being fabricated in the laboratory are generally comfortable. They protect the prepared surfaces and give you a preview of the shape and size of your final result. On the day the permanent veneers are bonded, you may notice some sensitivity to temperature for a short time while the adhesive fully sets, but this typically fades within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are anxious about dental procedures in general, let us know during your consultation. We can adjust the pacing of the appointment and take extra steps to ensure you feel comfortable throughout. Dental anxiety is common and nothing to be embarrassed about.