Veneers are a great investment because they can give you a picture-perfect smile using a minimally invasive method. You can say “goodbye” to several aesthetic flaws using a single procedure. Veneers can last for a decade or longer with the correct care, like watching what you eat. Here are a few dietary changes that will help you get the most from your veneers.
How Do Veneers Work?
A veneer is a thin restoration that is applied to the front surface of a tooth to improve its overall appearance. Bonding veneers to the teeth that show when you smile can fix many imperfections simultaneously, like chips, discoloration, and gaps. Generally, it takes two appointments to transform your smile.
During your first visit, your dentist will prepare your teeth and make an impression of your mouth. They will apply temporary veneers to protect your teeth while the dental lab creates your final restorations. After your final veneers have been sent back to your dentist, you’ll return to have your temporary restorations removed and your permanent ones bonded in place. You’ll walk out of your appointment with a dazzling smile that looks natural.
Eating with Temporary Veneers
Temporary veneers are necessary to protect your teeth from sensitivity and bacteria because your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel. This ensures your final veneers fit your teeth snugly for the best results. Although this doesn’t harm your teeth, they must be covered by restorations.
Your temporary veneers won’t be as durable as your final set. Therefore, it’s important to avoid certain foods to ensure they last, like:
- Tough Meats
- Hard Breads
- Raw Vegetables
- Hard Foods
- Dark Foods and Drinks
- Sticky Foods
Eating with Porcelain Veneers
Modern veneers are thinner than ever before, thanks to porcelain. Not only does this make the procedure less invasive, but it provides natural-looking results. Although veneers are thin, they are also durable, but they aren’t indestructible. Here are a few things you should know to ensure your smile lasts:
- Dark Liquids and Foods: Porcelain is stain-resistant, but your underlying teeth are still vulnerable to discoloration. It’s best to limit your consumption of dark food and drinks to ensure seamless results.
- Hard and Crunchy Foods: Hard or crunchy foods can chip or crack your veneers over time. It’s best to moderate your consumption of them.
- Alcohol: Alcohol can weaken the bonding material holding your veneers in place, which can cause them to fall off.
- Sticky Foods: Sticky foods are difficult to remove from your teeth, increasing your risk of tooth decay.
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages can wear away at your veneers and the bonding material.
Your dentist will review any additional information to get the most from your investment. Although you might have to limit certain foods, you’ll have a stunning smile for years.
About Dr. Jennifer L. Kazemi
Dr. Kazemi earned her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and has continued her education in various specialties, including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and prosthetics. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (856) 282-0631.