Munching on some shelled pistachios before you enjoy a bottle of red wine and a Cuban cigar…this probably sounds like an enjoyable way to wrap up the day to some people. But if you wear porcelain veneers, you are checking nearly every box of what not to do in order to make them last many years.
Just like anything else, veneers are an investment and it makes sense to get the most for your money. What you eat and drink makes a big difference in how long they will remain in good condition before you must invest in a new set.
Here are some tips on what foods and beverages are great calls, as well as what to avoid, for a diet change with porcelain veneers that will extend their life.
Dos and Don’ts for Temporary Porcelain Veneers
In most cases before your final veneers are finished being crafted in a dental lab, you will need to wear temporary veneers for 2-3 weeks.
Here are some soft, non-staining foods you should seek out while wearing temporary veneers:
- Pasta
- Mashed potatoes
- Soft bread
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Soft canned food
- Bananas
Some of the foods to avoid with temporary veneers include:
- Hard foods, such as candy, raw fruits and vegetables, popcorn, ice, and similar items
- Tough meat
- Sticky foods like taffy and caramels
- Toasted or crunchy bread
- Staining agents, such as ketchup, berries, tomatoes, colas, tea, coffee, and red wine
Fruits and Veggies are Winners for Permanent Veneers
Fruits and vegetables are good for your health, but they’re also good for preserving the condition of your veneers. Enjoy items like apples, celery, and other crunchy produce, which scrape away food particles that collect around your teeth with every snack or meal. They can also scrape off plaque that can stick to veneers and discolor them.
Preserve Your Permanent Veneers and Avoid These Items
Most of these items to steer clear of will probably come as no surprise, considering they are not great choices for natural teeth, either.
- Extremely hard foods
- Dark liquids like red wine, black tea, and coffee – at least reduce the frequency and sip through a straw when possible
- Tobacco
- Alcoholic beverages – they can eventually damage the bonding material
A diet change with porcelain veneers is only part of the equation for maximizing their life. Regular brushing and flossing, as well as biannual dental checkups are key, as well.
About the Author
With the help of his staff, Dr. Spiro Saati has been serving his patients in Peabody for his entire career. He offers a wide array of services from porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dentistry treatments to dental implants. A clinical instructor at Harvard Dental School, he brings that expertise to the office with the goal of providing optimal care. For any general dentistry questions or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (978) 531-2185.