Maintain Your Veneers by Avoiding These Damaging Foods & Drinks

Dental veneers can help bring balance and beauty to your smile if it has been impacted by imperfections like damage, discoloration, and gaps. While these thin, durable shells of dental porcelain are incredibly versatile and can last for up to 25 years with the proper maintenance, it’s still crucial to be mindful of what you eat and drink so you can ensure they maintain their new, brilliant appearance for longer. Read on to learn more about certain foods and beverages that are good to avoid if you have veneers.

What Can You Eat with Temporary Veneers?

Before you receive your permanent restorations,  your cosmetic dentist will place temporary veneers over the visible surface of your prepared teeth. These will help give you an idea of what your final results will look like, but it’s important to keep in mind that they weren’t built to withstand as much as your permanent veneers.

It’s best to stick to soft meats, vegetables, and starches while you have your temporary veneers. Make sure to stock your pantry and refrigerator with chicken, soft canned foods and soups, bananas, soft bread, eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and pasta. You won’t have to eat these foods forever—typically, your temporary veneers will be removed within about two weeks, once your permanent ones are ready.

What Can You Eat with Permanent Veneers?

Unlike with your temporary veneers, your permanent ones will be crafted from durable porcelain that can withstand the daily wear-and-tear of eating and are less susceptible to becoming damaged. Even though this material is stain-resistant, it’s still a good idea to minimize your intake of foods and drinks that can cause them to discolor faster.

To help them keep their bright appearance and avoid any accidental damage, it’s best to steer clear of foods that are excessively hard or chewy, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages (which can affect the bonding material), and dark liquids like red wine, black tea, and coffee.

Other Ways to Maintain Your New-and-Improved Smile

It’s important to note that you won’t have to change your eating habits just because you’re getting porcelain veneers; however, after investing in your new grin, it makes sense to take precautionary measures to preserve it.

Although your veneers can’t get cavities, your teeth underneath them still can, so remember to maintain good at-home hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. You’ll also want to continue visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.

With the proper maintenance and mindful habits, you’ll be able to enjoy your veneers for up to two decades, making them well worth the financial and time investment!

About the Author

Dr. Alan DeAngelo is a highly skilled cosmetic dentist with over two decades of experience under his belt. He’s a leading expert in his area who has received countless hours of continuing education in a variety of treatments, including Invisalign, and he’s passionate about helping make his patients’ dream smiles a reality. For questions or to schedule a consultation to learn whether veneers are right for you, visit DeAngelo Dental of Homer Glen’s website or call 708-854-5912.