Veneers can give you the bright, gleaming smile you have always wanted! They are a wonderful way to restore your confidence and have the pearly whites of your dreams. Fortunately, you can count on your custom teeth coverings to last quite a while; their expected lifespan is 10-30 years. In addition to maintaining an excellent oral care routine, your diet can help contribute to your veneers’ longevity. Your cosmetic dentist is here to give you nutritional tips to keep your smile shining for as long as possible!
Temporary Veneers
Since temporary veneers are attached to your teeth with temporary cement, they are more likely than permanent veneers to become dis They are also more likely to stain due to the various materials they are made of (unlike your permanent porcelain veneers). For these reasons, it is best to avoid:
- Hard Foods: This includes candies, popcorn, ice, raw fruits and 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 can risk dislodging your restoration.
- Hard Bread: If you like to enjoy toasted or crusty bread, you should wait till you are no longer wearing temporary veneers.
- Staining Foods: Red wine, tomatoes, ketchup, berries, coffee, tea, and other staining foods should be avoided.
Some safer food options are eggs, pasta, mashed potatoes, bananas, and chicken. These are great options due to being soft and less likely to stain.
Permanent Veneers
When you get your permanent veneers, you won’t need to be nearly as worried about breakage or staining because they are much stronger and more resilient than your temporary ones! However, there are still certain things that can damage your veneers. Here are some things you should avoid to help your custom restorations last as long as possible:
- Smoking: Tobacco use can cause your veneers to become stained over time.
- Extremely Hard Foods: Just like your natural teeth, veneers are not indestructible. It is important to avoid extremely hard foods so that they don’t become damaged.
- Alcoholic Beverages: The acidity in alcoholic drinks can eventually diminish the bonding material that holds your veneer in place.
- Dark Liquids: Red wine, black tea, and coffee should only be enjoyed in moderation. If you like to enjoy any of these beverages, it is recommended that you drink them through a straw and rinse your mouth out 30 minutes afterward to prevent staining.
As you can see, you are still able to enjoy so many wonderful food options with your custom restoration. By being mindful of these tips from your cosmetic dentist, you will be able to enjoy your improved smile for many years to come!
About the Practice
Washington Dental Care serves Chicago under the expertise of Dr. Peter Hammes and Dr. Giancarlo Cecchini. Their personalized dental plans and late evening/Saturday hours ensure your smile is their top priority. With the latest in advanced dental technology, they are able to provide the best care for your veneers or other cosmetic services. If you want to learn more about veneers or need help with your current restoration, contact them through their website or by phone at (312) 820-1717.
