If you’re looking to enhance the natural beauty of your smile, veneers are an excellent option. They can cover all sorts of cosmetic dental issues, including chips, cracks, discoloration, stains, as well as misshapen teeth. However, you should know whether or not there is a diet change with veneers after you get them placed. Cosmetic dentistry is an investment, so you want to make the most out of them. Read on to learn more about dietary changes with your new veneers.
Temporary Veneers
While your permanent veneers are being crafted in a laboratory, you will be wearing temporary ones to keep your teeth safe. Usually, this lasts for about two to three weeks until you are able to have your permanent ones placed. Here are some foods that you should be avoiding during this time:
- Hard Foods: This includes candy, popcorn, ice, raw vegetables, or anything else that is particularly hard.
- Tough Meats: Beef jerky and other meats that are not very tender should be avoided
- Sticky Foods: Taffy and caramels are not a good option with your temporary veneers.
- Hard Bread: If you like to enjoy toasted or crusty bread, you should wait until you are no longer wearing temporary veneers.
- Staining Foods: Red wine, tomatoes, ketchup, berries, coffee, tea, and other staining foods should be avoided.
Fortunately, there are still plenty of delicious foods that you can enjoy in the meantime. Try sticking to things like eggs, pasta, mashed potatoes, bananas, softer bread, chicken, bananas, and other soft, non-staining foods.
Final, Customized Veneers
When you get your veneers, you won’t need to be nearly as worried about breakage or staining because they are so much stronger and more resilient. However, there are still certain things that can damage your veneers. Here are some things to steer clear from when possible:
- Smoking: Tobacco use can cause your veneers to become stained over time.
- Hard Foods: Just like your natural teeth, veneers are not indestructible. It’s important to avoid extremely hard foods so they don’t become damaged.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Over time, they can eventually damage the bonding material.
- Dark Liquids: Red wine, black tea, and coffee should only be enjoyed in moderation. If you like to enjoy any of these beverages often, it is recommended that you drink them through a straw and rinse your mouth out afterward to prevent staining.
Once you have your veneers, you will pretty much be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods. By being cautious, you will be able to reap the benefits of your new and improved smile for many years to come.
About the Author
After serving in the United States Marine Corps, Dr. Joshua Thomas Pogue earned his dental doctorate from the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. He is a Fellow of the International Dental Implant Association and is affiliated with the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and Iowa Dental Association. To learn more about veneers or to schedule an appointment at his office in Bettendorf, visit his website or call (563) 332-7734.