Almost everyone has at least one defect in their smile they would like to address, and veneers can conceal even extensive dental flaws and completely transform a patient’s grin. While these devices may be an excellent way to achieve the smile of your dreams, it’s best to be careful while chewing with them to keep them in excellent shape for as long as possible. Here’s a quick look at what veneers are, how they are placed, and how you can make smart dietary decisions while wearing them.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin ceramic shells designed to be cemented over troubled teeth to conceal defects like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and misshapenness, and they are the open secret behind the seemingly flawless smiles of many media personalities. Placing these devices typically requires two appointments spaced several weeks apart.
During the first, your dentist will ensure your comfort with a local anesthetic before carefully reshaping your teeth so the veneers can fit properly. Then, they will take detailed measurements of your mouth and place temporary veneers on your teeth. These measurements will be sent to a trusted dental lab where a skilled technician will craft your final restorations. Once your veneers are completed, you’ll come back to the office so your dentist can cement them in place and make any final adjustments.
Will Veneers Change My Diet?
While veneers do not require any dietary restrictions, it’s important to be careful when eating with them to prevent damage. A few tips to keep in mind include:
- Chew carefully: Chewing too aggressively on items that are sticky, crunchy, hard, or chewy can loosen your veneers and set them up for early failure.
- Avoid staining items: Veneers are incredibly stain-resistant, but overexposure to discoloring items can eventually leave blemishes on them. Take care to limit your intake of dark foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, cola, berries, candy, and sauces.
- Limit sugars and acids: Sugar feeds the harmful oral bacteria that cause tooth decay, and acid erodes enamel on contact. Be sure to enjoy sweet and sour items in moderation.
Veneers that receive excellent care can last for fifteen years or more. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to keep your cosmetic appliances in great shape.
About the Author
Dr. Mohannad Abboushi earned his dental degree at New York University and is certified in Invisalign, ABLS laser therapy, and dental implants. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the New Jesey Dental Association, and the American Board of Laser Surgery. His office in Bloomfield offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. To schedule your consultation for veneers, contact his office on the web or dial (973) 358-7277.