Adjusting eating habits is never easy, but in some cases, it is necessary. For example, you may need to make a diet change with porcelain veneers in Newington. A few simple alterations to what and how you eat may extend the lifespan of your treatment and help your smile to stay beautiful and strong for as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you out:
With Temporary Veneers, Choose Soft, Light-Colored Foods
Permanent veneers can handle virtually any food if you take proper precautions, but because temporary veneers are more delicate and more vulnerable to stains, it is important to eat primarily soft, light-colored foods. Here are some examples of acceptable choices:
- Bananas
- White fish
- Pasta
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Soft bread
Be Wary of Hard Foods
Hard foods run the risk of breaking your veneers (whether temporary or permanent). Here are some examples of things that you should not bite down on:
- Ice
- Hard candies
- Nuts (These are fine to eat, but you should move them directly to your back teeth for chewing.)
- Apples and other hard fruits and veggies (Again, move them straight to the molars.)
Limit Dark Beverages
Fortunately, permanent veneers are nonporous, a fact that means they are highly resistant to stains. However, they can still become discolored over time. Therefore, it would be wise to limit your intake of dark beverages, such as red wine and coffee.
When you do choose to indulge in dark liquids, try drinking them through a straw. Doing so will minimize their contact with your teeth and reduce their staining potential.
Eat Lots of Fruits and Vegetables
Some raw fruits and vegetables could damage veneers if you use your front teeth to bite down on them. However, that does not mean you should avoid them altogether. For example, if you slice up and apple and move it directly to your molars for chewing, its crunchy texture can scrape plaque off of your teeth and help you maintain a clean mouth — and clean veneers. The same is true for other food items as well, such as celery and carrots.
Limit Alcohol
You do not have to give up alcohol altogether; an occasional drink should not do much harm to your veneers. However, heavy or frequent drinking poses a risk. The alcohol may adversely affect the bonding agent that is holding your veneers in place. It could eventually cause them to fall off!
Opt for Foods that Cause Less Sensitivity
When you first get your veneers (either your temporary or permanent ones), you might find that your teeth are extra sensitive. For most patients, this wears off within a few days or weeks. In the meantime, you can limit your discomfort by avoiding foods that worsen or cause sensitivity. For example, extremely hot and cold foods, as well as anything acidic, should be temporarily removed from your diet.
For most people, veneers do not require any drastic or long-term dietary adjustments. However, making some minor alterations to the way you eat and drink could extend the lifespan of your new look.
Meet the Practice
Family Dental Practice of Newington is home to a large team of talented dentists and specialists. Veneers are just one of the several cosmetic services that are available in our practice. To learn more about how we may be able to help you enhance or care for your smile, contact us at 860-856-6201.