If you want to change the aesthetic of your teeth and get your dream smile, veneers are a very great way to do it.
The procedure can help with a lot of cosmetic dental concerns, such as:
- Severe staining and discoloration
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen and uneven teeth
- Worn down teeth
- Small chips or cracks
But before getting veneers, it’s important to understand what you may be signing up for. So, Rainier Smiles Dentistry has prepared this short guide on what kind of dietary changes you might need to make after getting veneers.
How Do Veneers Work?
Veneers are made from a thin layer of porcelain and act as covers for the front surface of your natural teeth. After the dentist shaves off a bit of natural enamel to create a rough texture, the veneer is bonded to the tooth, immediately improving its appearance.
Veneers will be custom-made to give you the results you want. The dentist will scan your smile and send an impression to a lab, where your veneers will be made. In the meantime, you’ll receive a set of temporary veneers which will protect your teeth.
What Foods Can You Eat?
When you have temporary veneers on, it’s best to stick to soft and non-staining foods, just until you get your permanent veneers on.
These can include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Purees
- Eggs
- Yogurt
- Pasta
- Chicken and fish
- Boiled vegetables
- Soups and stews, etc.
Temporary veneers are not as strong or resilient as permanent ones - and that’s the point. As a result, it’s best to make these slight dietary changes until you get your permanent ones.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
While still wearing the temporary veneers, be sure to avoid:
- Steaks and other tough or chewy meats
- Raw vegetables
- Hard candy
- Popcorn
- Ice
- Sticky foods like caramel
This will help keep your temporary veneers in place until your permanent replacements are ready.
Once you get your permanent veneers, you won’t have to refrain from a lot of your favorite foods, but you should be a bit more mindful of what and how you eat. Veneers can be strong, but they are not indestructible. They can still chip, crack, and wear out over time, and how long your veneers last generally depends on how well you maintain them.
So when you’re wearing permanent veneers, you may want to:
- Drink staining liquids (such as coffee or tea) through a straw
- Avoid hard foods like hard nuts or popcorn kernels as much as possible
- Reduce alcohol consumption, since it can wear the veneer bonding material
Getting Veneers at Rainier Smiles Dentistry
Dr. Steve Hong can help you find out if you’re a good candidate for veneers and provide you with the smile you’ve always wanted.
To get started, book a veneers consultation at Rainier Smiles Dentistry online and stop by our practice!