Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of teeth to conceal imperfections and provide a brighter, more even smile. Getting them is a two-step process. First, the teeth are filed to comfortably accommodate the size of the veneers before a mold is taken; at this point, the dentist attaches temporary versions. Once the permanent, customized versions are ready, the dentist replaces the temporary coverings with the permanent ones. How you treat them is important, however. Avoiding certain foods will help protect both versions and ensure your smile is brighter for years to come. Here’s a closer look.

Temporary

With temporary veneers, steer clear of all extremely hard or crunchy foods to reduce the risk of breaks or cracks. This includes ice, hard candies, nuts, potato chips, and firm, crisp fruits and vegetables, such as apples and raw carrots.

Temporary veneers also don't have the stain-resistant capabilities of permanent ones, so dark-colored foods—either from natural sources or from artificial food dyes—can noticeably dim your smile. Minimize your consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and tomato-based products, including ketchup and spaghetti sauce.

Permanent

In general, permanent coverings are much more durable and stain-resistant than temporary sets. Hard foods like those described above should be consumed in moderation and with attention; don't bite down too aggressively, and aim to chew with the molars, not the front teeth. Ice, however, can still be damaging to permanent veneers, as can biting your nails and using your teeth to open packaging.

If you're considering a smile upgrade with a set of veneers, start exploring your options by visiting a dentist. JP Larson, DDS, and Stephen J. Larson, DDS, offer general and cosmetic dentistry services to the Cincinnati, OH, area. Whether you need porcelain coverings, a routine dental checkup, or root canal therapy, they’re here to help you maintain optimal oral health and wellness. Call (513) 528-1223 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.