Veneers are highly durable, but they’re not indestructible. Keep them in perfect condition by avoiding foods that may damage them.

Since the 1930s, dental veneers have improved the appearance of crooked, chipped, stained, or imperfect teeth. Compared to crowns and implants, veneers are a less expensive option to restore teeth. With proper care, veneers can last a decade or more. 

Yet, for all their durability and longevity, veneers are not indestructible. To keep your veneers in perfect condition for many years, avoid certain foods that may scratch or damage them. Read on to learn what food to avoid (and what good foods you can continue enjoying).

Foods to avoid with veneers

Veneers are thin shells made of either porcelain or composite resin cemented to the tooth. While traditional porcelain veneers are more long-lasting and stain resistant than composite resin, they’re also more expensive. So you’ll have to decide which type is more cost-effective for you.

Although veneers are meant to act as natural teeth, they can be damaged by the following foods and beverages. Avoiding these foods is especially essential when you are fitted with temporary veneers before the permanent ones are placed.

Hard, chewy meat and foods. A juicy, well-cooked steak is delicious, but it can be tough to chew. If you want steak, cut it into small pieces and chew with your back teeth away from the veneers, which are typically placed on the front teeth. Also, be careful not to eat popcorn or hard nuts.

Dark-colored beverages. Generally speaking, veneers resist stains. Yet over time, they can become stained if you drink too much pigmented liquids such as tea, coffee, and wine. If you indulge, rinse your mouth with water soon after, or sip through a straw.

Sticky foods. Hard candies, caramels, and taffy can attach to the veneers and possibly damage them.

Crunchy foods and veggies. Raw carrots and toasted bread can also damage your veneers. However, you can eat apples if sliced into small pieces. Corn on the cob can be eaten if you don’t bite into the core.

Acidic foods. The acids in citrusy liquids and tomato drinks can erode the bonding material beneath the veneers and shorten their lifespan.

Alcohol. Like acidic foods, alcohol weakens the bond between the veneer and your tooth.

Although not a food product, you should avoid tobacco when you have veneers. The chemicals in tobacco are not only staining but can also break down the cement used to attach the veneer to your tooth.

What can you eat with veneers?

Now that we’ve discussed what foods are recommended to avoid (or to eat in moderation), let’s look at what foods you can enjoy to your heart’s content. You don’t have to change your diet too much to satisfy your nutritional needs.

Soft bread. Untoasted bread is less damaging to your veneers.

Bananas. Soft, ripened bananas are a good source of potassium, an essential mineral.

Pasta. Love carbs? Dive into a bowl of pasta.

Mashed potatoes. Potatoes are also packed with potassium; when mashed, they’re easier on the veneers.

Eggs. Get your daily dose of protein with a serving of eggs.

Chicken. Although steak may be tough to chew, chicken isn’t. Like eggs, it’s an excellent source of protein.

Veneers are considered a cosmetic dental procedure. Therefore, you’ll be paying out of pocket for them, so you’ll want to protect your investment. Besides these minor adjustments to your diet, remember to brush with a non-abrasive toothpaste and refrain from biting on hard objects like a pen or ice. With these simple tips, you’ll maintain your veneers in perfect condition for many, many years.

Want a better smile? Veneers are the way to go!

Schedule an appointment at Espire’s Mission Valley, California, location today! Our highly trained dentists can fit you with veneers to give you a perfect smile and offer pointers on maximizing their lifespan. Don’t live near our Mission Valley, CA office? Find one of our other locations near you.

Mission Valley, CA
8989 Rio San Diego Drive
Suite 170
San Diego, CA 92108