What Can’t You Eat with Veneers?

One of the ways to correct and repair imperfections like chips, cracks, or stains and improve your smile is using dental veneers. These shells are bonded to enamel to change the smile. Veneers are sturdy and can last for a long with proper care. You can eat various foods and beverages without worrying about them chipping. But, there are certain foods that can affect the shells, and you need to avoid them to keep them in good shape.

Are You a Candidate for Veneers?

Our dentist can recommend veneers near you if you have chips, cracks, stains, or other imperfections on the teeth. These shells are also used to fix gapped teeth and improve misaligned teeth.

Porcelain veneers may not be ideal for you if you have active decay, gum infection, thin enamel, or teeth grinding.

How Are Dental Veneers Placed on the Teeth?

Getting dental veneers in Phoenix, AZ, needs at least two dental visits, depending on the complexity of the dental condition. Our dentist examines your oral health, teeth, and gums to check if you are eligible for veneers.

The dentist removes any decay from your tooth, shapes it, and then takes an impression of your teeth. This mold or 3D scan impression is then sent to a dental lab, where a custom-made porcelain veneer is made for you. The dentist will then use bonding material to attach the veneer directly onto your tooth.

What are the Foods to Avoid with Veneers?

Veneers are durable and allow you to most foods. But, they are not immune to cracking, chipping, or discoloration, and there are foods you need to limit or avoid, and they include:

• • Apples

You should take care with eating hard foods, like apples, raw carrots, or bone-in meat. These types of food can cause the tooth to crack if you bite down too hard on them. That’s why we generally recommend chewing these foods with the back teeth. If you have composite or Lumineers type of veneer, it’s important to avoid these types of foods.

• • Candy

If you’re wearing veneers, one type of food to avoid is Jawbreakers. This is true for all veneers, including porcelain, no-prep, composite, and temporaries. Hard candies are traditionally okay to consume as long as you don’t bite into any while they’re still hard.

• • Corn on the cob

You can take corn on the cob if you have permanent porcelain veneers. However, if you choose to do so, be sure not to bite too hard. You should gently separate the corn from the surface of the cob before popping it in your mouth. Also, ensure the corn on the cob is cooked before eating because raw corn on the cob will stain your teeth.

• • Steak

If you have porcelain or other permanent veneers, it’s best to cut the meat into small pieces before eating it. Avoid biting into or pulling at the bone while eating bones. This can unnecessarily strain the veneers and weaken the bonding material prematurely.

• • Chips

Potato and corn chips are safe for veneers if taken in moderation. Although chips won’t damage your veneers, general poor nutrition can affect the teeth (and, by extension, the veneers).

• • Coffee and tea

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, and it is unlikely they can be discolored easily. It is important to note that excessive consumption of dark beverages like coffee and tea may stain the bonding material, leaving a yellow or brown stain along the edge of the tooth.

It is advisable to drink the beverages with a straw to avoid contact with the teeth. Also, be extra careful if you have composite veneers because they are lower quality.

• • Tobacco products

Stained teeth can make your smile look unappealing and diminish the effect of your veneers. If you smoke or chew tobacco, it can cause yellowing of the teeth that may be noticeable with veneers.

Your veneers may look unnatural over time because they begin to mismatch with other natural teeth.

If you’re interested in getting veneers or have further questions about caring for them, visit a dentist near you. At Healthy Smiles, we offer veneers and other cosmetic dentistry options to help you achieve a beautiful, confident smile. Our dentist in Phoenix, AZ, is committed to providing you with quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you achieve your desired smile.