Are you getting veneers for a smile transformation and decades of enhanced confidence? If so, congratulations! You probably have a lot of questions about how they may impact your life. One of the most common concerns about veneers is whether or not they will affect what you can eat. In order to extend the lifespan of your veneers, you should make a few adjustments to your lifestyle. Here’s how veneers might change your diet.
What You Can Eat with Veneers
Because veneers are stain-resistant and quite durable, you can eat anything your heart desires! That being said, it’s still a good idea to stick to the following to keep them in pristine condition:
- Bananas
- Chicken
- Eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
- Soft bread (or bread without crust)
- Soft canned food
- White fish
There is still a wide variety of delicious and nutritious foods you can eat with veneers that both protect your smile and satisfy your cravings.
What You Should Avoid Eating with Veneers
Although they resist staining well and are strong, your permanent veneers aren’t indestructible. As such, you should make small adjustments to your diet and avoid (or at the very least consume in moderation) the following:
- Acidic food or drinks – Citrus juices, soft drinks, and tomatoes
- Dark liquids – Red wine, coffee, and tea
- Extremely hard or crunchy foods – Popcorn kernels, nuts, seeds, and chips
- Staining foods –Berries, curry, and jams
- Sticky or chewy foods – Taffy, sticky candies, and steak
Of course, these are only recommendations. If you choose to indulge, there are still measures you can take to reduce damage to your veneers. After eating or drinking something acidic or staining, rinse your mouth with water and maintain a good oral hygiene routine. For tough meats or crunchy fruits and vegetables, try cutting them into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
Veneers are designed to be long-lasting and resistant to a lot of breakage and staining, but sometimes the unexpected happens. It’s best to take precautions to make the most of your investment.
About the Author
Dr. Kevin P. Labosky has been practicing dentistry for over 25 years. He offers a wide range of dental services and is dedicated to protecting his patients’ oral health. Dr. Labosky is highly experienced in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. In just two appointments, Dr. Labosky can mask multiple dental imperfections with veneers and make your dream smile a reality. If you want to know more about what you can and can’t eat with veneers, contact Dr. Labosky through his website or by phone at (814) 237-7004.
