Nothing is more fulfilling than feeling comfortable and confident with your smile. Sometimes, a great smile doesn’t come naturally. It takes one or a couple of cosmetic dentistry treatments to get that picture-friendly smile and keep your teeth in perfect shape.
If you just had a cosmetic dentistry procedure, such as teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, dental bonding, or dental implants, you may be wondering how to maintain your beautiful smile for a long time. In addition to practicing proper oral hygiene habits, there are certain foods and drinks to avoid after getting a cosmetic dentistry treatment.
STICKY AND HARD CANDIES
Generally, any type of candy is not suitable for your teeth, but gummy and hard candies are particularly harmful. They get stuck on your teeth and can hold onto your bonded teeth or veneers, leading to damage or premature loosening.
Hard candy, on the other hand, increases your risk of tooth cracks and damage if you start biting on them. You might want to cut your consumption of sticky and hard candies to keep your smile healthier.
STAINING BEVERAGES
Staining beverages like coffee, cola, wine, and tea can stain or discolor your teeth. So you may need to limit the consumption of these drinks after your smile has been restored. If you must drink any of these beverages, consider using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. This helps reduce the possibility of staining.
HARD FOODS
Some hard foods like nuts, popcorn kernels, and almonds won’t hurt your teeth instantly but can cause chips and cracks over time. It is important to avoid chewing these foods with your front teeth, especially if you have dental bonding or veneers. It’s recommended that you chew them using your rear molars to safeguard your smile.
ACIDIC FRUIT JUICES
Most fruit juices, such as orange juice, are rich in sugar and acid, even those branded as organic or natural. Excessive sugar and acidity weaken your teeth, especially if you consume them on a regular basis without cleaning your teeth properly. Some acidic fruit juices can even stain your teeth, impacting your smile.
ICE
Ice is extremely hard, and just like hard candies, it can chip, crack, or damage your teeth. Avoid chewing ice with your front teeth and back molars to protect your smile. Some people have a habit of chewing on ice. If you’re one of these people, break that habit to protect your smile and keep your teeth in good shape for a long time.
CONTACT DRIFTWOOD DENTAL STUDIO IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN COSMETIC DENTISTRY
These are some of the foods and drinks to avoid after a cosmetic treatment to achieve a brighter and healthier smile.
If you want to learn more about cosmetic dentistry in Mukilteo, WA, contact Driftwood Dental Studio online or call our office at (425) 584-6351 for an appointment with Dr. Rebecca Butler to learn your options for restoring your beautiful smile.