A Nutritious Diet: The Key to Preserving Your Veneers?

Veneers are a cosmetic dental treatment that has skyrocketed in popularity in the last decade or so. With complete customization, a quick turnaround time, and natural-looking results, it’s not hard to see why! One of the biggest draws, however, is the 15+ year lifespan. The longevity of yours relies heavily on how you care for them, including the foods you do (and don’t) indulge in. Keep reading to learn about the importance of a diet change with porcelain veneers.

5 Items to Avoid with Veneers

Veneers are comprised of only the best materials, making them extremely durable. With that being said, like real teeth, they are vulnerable to chips, stains, and damage. That’s why it’s of the utmost importance that you avoid:

• Extremely hard foods, such as peanut brittle
• Tobacco products
• Alcoholic beverages
• Pigmented foods and drinks, like red wine and balsamic glaze
• Ice (more specifically, chewing on ice)

A Few Foods That Will Help Preserve Your Veneers

Veneers may be stain-resistant and cavity-resilient, but they are like your natural teeth in one important way: they require consistent care. To help keep your new and improved smile in pristine condition for as long as possible throughout the years, make sure to stick to a well-balanced diet filled with nutrient-rich foods. Incorporating foods like bananas, apples, and celery will help keep your teeth healthy from the inside-out. Next, fill your plate with foods that are light in color, like yogurt, eggs, and white cheese. The dairy and protein will benefit your teeth while the pigment-free nature will prevent unwanted staining.

6 Additional Oral Health Best Practices to Implement

Your diet is certainly important when it comes to the look and function of your smile. However, to truly keep your veneers in tip-top shape, you should also implement the below oral health best practices:

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss daily
• Rinse with mouthwash regularly
• Visit your dentist biannually for a checkup and cleaning
• Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on pen caps

If your teeth are chipped, stained, or otherwise flawed, veneers may just be the smile-enhancing treatment you’ve been looking for. To ensure they last, keep the above diet changes and oral health best practices in mind throughout the years. Your smile will thank you!

About the Author

Since earning her dental doctorate from the UConn School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Ukti Phadnis has used her education, skill, and passion to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams. Throughout the years, she has prioritized continuing education, undergoing training in everything from cosmetic dentistry and Invisalign to dental implants. If you have any questions about preserving your veneers or want to schedule a consultation to see if you’re a candidate, don’t hesitate to visit her website or call 860-400-3007.