Patients occasionally think dental veneers could never fail. Their porcelain material is so durable that it’s hard to imagine them breaking. Likewise, how could material so pristine during the initial placement become sullied? However, veneers wear over time and need care to last.
One example of this care is making dietary changes to reduce the risk of veneers failing. For those interested in trying it themselves, here’s a summary of a suggested diet change with your porcelain veneers.
Your Diet with Temporary Veneers
As their name suggests, temporary veneers are a short-term treatment used while patients wait to receive permanent ones. Due to being applied with temporary cement, they’re more likely to be displaced than the regular variety.
You’d be wise to steer clear of some foods until your final veneers are placed. For instance, if you are wearing temporary ones, try to avoid:
- Hard foods — candy, raw fruits and vegetables, popcorn, ice, etc.
- Tough meat, bone-in or otherwise
- Sticky foods, particularly taffy and caramel
- Toasted bread
- Staining agents such as berries, tomatoes, colas, etc.
While wearing temporary veneers, it’s preferable to eat soft, non-staining foods like pasta, mashed potatoes, eggs, or chicken.
Your Diet with Permanent Veneers
Specialists make permanent veneers from high-grade porcelain that’s more resistant to staining. Because of said porcelain’s strength, these veneers are also less vulnerable to breakage.
Still, there are certain foods or lifestyle habits that can damage this type. To keep your own in optimal shape, refrain from eating the following:
- Crunchy breads
- Overly chewy meats, like steak
- Hard candy, like peanut brittle
- Whole apples
- Raw vegetables, like celery
For beverages like coffee or tea, it’s better to sip them through a straw to reduce their contact with your teeth. Additionally, rinse your mouth out with water after every meal to reduce the risk of staining.
Remember, Veneers Need Dental Care Too!
Even after making dietary changes, you should practice good oral hygiene to keep your veneers white.
Firstly, try to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Alternatively, rinse your mouth with water if a toothbrush isn’t available. Food particles can easily stick to porcelain, so flossing is also encouraged.
Regular six-month dental checkups will also help preserve your veneers. The dentist will examine them during your appointment, perform any necessary cleaning, and correct any flaws. A dental checkup will also find any gaps between the veneer and the tooth, places bacteria can enter, or if the bond is breaking down.
Remember: Porcelain veneers aren’t invincible. Therefore, try to help them last a lifetime by practicing a good diet!
About the Practice
Rancho Park Dental Group is based in Los Angeles, CA. Headed by Drs. Nicole Sassounian and Albert Silvera, they provide a highly-customized dental experience. Their services range from preventive to cosmetic and restorative dentistry, all of which is tailored to the needs of the patient. Their team accepts many insurance plans and will work with providers to maximize appointment benefits. For more information or to schedule an appointment, the practice can be reached at their website or by phone at (310)-575-0886.