Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments currently available. They can cover chipped, misshapen, or stained teeth with ease! Veneers can last you decades, but what steps do you have to take to achieve this? Well, your diet is one factor that you should keep in mind since veneers are likely to change your diet a bit! If you already have veneers, are currently rocking a temporary set, or are considering getting this cosmetic service, here are some foods you’ll want to be careful around so your veneers can last as long as possible.
Foods to Avoid with Temporary Veneers
As the dental lab perfects your final veneers, you will be fitted with a temporary set. They look like the real thing, but they aren’t as durable. The trial set is bonded with a weaker cement, so it’s recommended to stick with softer foods and avoid the following:
- Moderately Hard Foods: Popcorn, toasted bread, raw fruits, and tough meats can damage veneers if not eaten carefully.
- Dark Drinks: While it’s nice to enjoy a cup of coffee or wine, dark beverages can stain the temporaries.
- Sticky Foods: Candy like caramel or taffy can get stuck to the veneers. If you try to remove it, do so gently so as not to cause damage.
Foods That Can Affect Your Permanent Veneers
The final set is more durable than the temporary ones, but it’s still good practice to be wary of the same foods. Over time, they can get worn down or stained. Some food can even erode the bonding agent. Acidic foods and drinks like sodas, lemons, and even tomatoes can slowly break down the bond between your teeth and veneers, causing them to become loose or even fall out long before they should.
How You Can Make Your Veneers Last
The good news is that you aren’t banned from eating these foods. You can still enjoy them, but you may have to take extra precautions. One of the first things you can do is eat them in moderation. When you do decide to dive in, you can do a few things:
- Cutting up hard food into smaller pieces can help ensure your veneers stay perfect.
- If sticky foods get stuck to your veneers, rinse them with warm salt water to try to loosen the stuck food.
- After drinking dark drinks, swishing with plain water can help prevent any staining.
- Brushing and flossing daily, along with routine dental visits, will help ensure your veneers stay pristine.
When you understand how to care for your new smile, you can be prepared to change your habits so it can last decades!
About the Practice
At Kringle Dentistry, our family is ready to care for your oral health. Drs. Kyle and Kasey Kringle ensure every patient gets the dental help they need. They offer cosmetic dental treatments like veneers so you can have a smile you’re proud of. If you want to learn more about veneers, schedule an appointment or call us at (662) 307-2201.