What Foods Can I Eat and What Should I Avoid With Veneers?
What are veneers?
Porcelain veneers are among the most aesthetically pleasing cosmetic solutions for cracked, damaged, chipped, or stained teeth. Made of ultra-thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of the teeth, veneers can beautifully enhance your smile while boosting your self-confidence. They can be customized to suit your individual tooth color, shape, size, and length so that they look completely authentic. When carefully maintained and cared for, veneers can last for years – sometimes over a decade.
Who is a good candidate for veneers?
Whether you are seeking to improve the appearance of a gap in your smile, or you’re looking to hide cracks, stains, or other imperfections in the teeth, veneers are among the most popular options for revitalizing your look. Your dentist will perform an in-depth consultation to determine if veneers are right for you. The dentist will check for gum disease and decay, and also see if there is any problem with tooth grinding or clenching, issues which will need to be controlled and addressed before undergoing cosmetic treatment with veneers.
How is the procedure performed?
Once it’s determined that you are a good candidate for veneers, the dentist will make a mold of your mouth, which is then sent to a professional laboratory where the veneers are fabricated from top-tier porcelain. You will be fitted with temporary veneers while you wait for the permanent ones to be finished. Once they are ready, the dentist will begin the process of bonding the veneers to your teeth. This may entail removing a small portion of the tooth enamel to ensure the veneers are well-positioned. Afterward, the dentist will make any adjustments necessary to ensure your bite is comfortable.
What are some foods to avoid with veneers?
Once your veneers are in place, you may need to make some dietary changes to ensure their longevity and prevent damage or discoloration. In addition to the list below, you should avoid drinking alcohol, which can negatively interact with the tooth bonding compound. You may also want to avoid extremely hot or cold beverages and foods, which can trigger sensitivity for certain patients.
Some common foods and drinks to avoid are:
Hard foods:
- Candy
- Ice
- Raw fruit
- Raw vegetables
- Toast
Sticky foods:
- Caramel
- Gum
- Licorice
Foods that are hard to chew:
- Meats
- Certain cooked vegetables
Foods that stain:
- Tomatoes
- Ketchup
- Berries
- Tea
- Coffee
- Cola
What foods are okay to eat with veneers?
Soft foods:
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Canned food
- Bananas
- Chicken
- Pasta
- Soups
- Smoothies
What is the takeaway?
Veneers can present a wonderful cosmetic improvement in the appearance of your smile, but it’s important to care for them properly by choosing the right foods and drinks, and continuing to brush, floss, and attend regular oral checkups. By following simple guidelines about which foods to avoid, you can ensure that your veneers remain aesthetically pleasing for years to come.
Schedule a consultation today!