Foods and Habits to Avoid With Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry solution for creating a brighter, more uniform smile. They’re durable, natural-looking, and designed to last for many years - but like natural teeth, they still require proper care. Porcelain veneers are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Certain foods can increase the risk of chipping, cracking, or loosening veneers.

Hard Foods

Biting down on hard foods can put excessive pressure on veneers, especially along the edges.

•  Ice

• Hard candies

• Nuts or nut shells

• Unpopped popcorn kernels

Instead, cut hard foods into smaller pieces and chew carefully using your back teeth.

Sticky and Chewy Foods

Sticky foods can pull at veneers and place stress on the bonding material.

• Caramels

• Taffy

• Gummy candies

• Chewing gum

Occasional exposure may not cause immediate damage, but frequent consumption can increase wear over time.

Highly Pigmented Foods and Drinks

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but the natural teeth around them are not. Dark-colored foods and beverages can create uneven discoloration.

• Coffee and tea

• Red wine

• Dark berries

• Tomato-based sauces

• Soy sauce

Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming these items can help minimize staining.

Habits That Can Damage Porcelain Veneers

Everyday habits can have a big impact on the longevity of your veneers.

• Using Teeth as Tools: Opening packages, biting fingernails, or tearing tape with your teeth can easily chip or crack veneers.

• Teeth Grinding or Clenching: Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching) places significant pressure on veneers, especially at night. If you grind your teeth, a custom night guard can help protect both your veneers and natural teeth.

• Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco can stain surrounding teeth and contribute to gum disease, which may compromise the support structure of your veneers.

Why Dental Exams and Cleanings Matter

Routine dental exams and professional cleanings are essential for protecting porcelain veneers and maintaining your overall oral health. Even though veneers are designed to be durable, they still rely on healthy teeth and gums for long-term success.

During regular dental checkups, your dentist can make sure your veneers remain securely bonded and functioning properly. These visits allow your dentist to check for chips, cracks, or early signs of wear, monitor the health of your gums around the veneers, and identify bite issues that could place unnecessary stress on them.

Professional cleanings are equally important because they remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing at home can’t fully eliminate. Healthy gums help support your veneers, while gum recession can expose veneer margins and affect the overall appearance of your smile. Staying consistent with cleanings helps keep both your veneers and natural teeth looking and feeling their best.

Stay Ahead of Veneer Wear and Damage with Ivy Ranch Dental

Porcelain veneers are a long-lasting, beautiful enhancement - but their longevity depends on how well you care for them. Avoiding certain foods and habits, practicing excellent oral hygiene, and staying consistent with dental exams and cleanings can help preserve your smile for years to come.

Contact Ivy Ranch Dental to schedule your next dental exam and cleaning and ensure your veneers stay healthy, secure, and beautiful. Visit our office in Oceanside, California, or call (760) 444-4505 to book an appointment today.