Home Instructions for Veneers / LUMINEERS®

In case we numb your teeth, your lips, cheeks, and tongue may be numb for a few hours. Be very careful when eating or drinking hot foods & liquids.  When the numbness wears off, if your temporaries feel high or your teeth feel as if they don’t meet together,  your bite may have to be adjusted. Call our office to schedule an appointment.

Please do not floss your temporary veneer, as this may cause it to come off. Your temporaries should be used very carefully, due to the possibility of them coming off or breaking. Avoid foods that are hard or sticky. Do not “bite” into foods. (i.e. corn on the cob, sandwiches or apples). If a temporary breaks or comes off call our office so that we may re-bond it.

For your permanent veneers or Lumineers, remember that it will take time to adjust to the feel of your new bite. When the bite is altered or the position of the teeth is changed it takes several days for the brain to recognize the new position of your teeth or their thickness as normal. If you continue to detect any high spots or problems with your bite, call our office at (805) 648-5351 or (805) 933-3933 so we can schedule an adjustment appointment.

It is normal to experience some hot and cold sensitivity. The teeth require some time to heal after removal of tooth structure and will be sensitive in the interim. Your gums may also be sore for a few days. A mild pain medication (one tablet of Tylenol or Ibuprofen (Motrin) every 3-4 hours) should ease any residual discomfort.  Don’t be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days. You’ll quickly adapt and be speaking normally. You may notice increased salivation. This is because your brain is responding to the new size and shape of your teeth. This should subside to normal in about a week.  Daily brushing and flossing are a must for your new dental work. Daily plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your new teeth, as are regular cleaning appointments.

Any food that can crack, chip or damage a natural tooth can do the same to your new teeth. Avoid hard foods, bad habits (such as beer nuts, peanut brittle, ice, fingernails, or pencils) and sticky candies. Smoking will stain your new teeth. Minimize or avoid foods that stain such as coffee, red wine, tea and berries.  If you engage in sports let us know so we can make a custom mouthguard. If you grind your teeth at night, wear the night guard we have provided for you. Adjusting to the look and feel of your new smile will take time. If you have any problems or concerns, please let us know. We always welcome your questions.