A Complete Guide to Veneers and Halloween Candy
October 30, 2017
For many with dental veneers, Halloween and the holiday season can be somewhat of a concern. After all, dentists have long advised patients to avoid foods high in sugar. Are veneers immune to the plaque and other damage sugar can cause to your oral health? Are they more susceptible than your actual teeth? And which foods should you avoid to keep them in good condition?
How Durable Are Veneers?
Your veneers’ susceptibility to plaque will vary depending on the material used and the clinic you attended for your cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Tana Busch at 8118 Dental Professionals will use either composite resin or ceramic veneers. Generally, the ceramic option is more durable and long-lasting than resin, which is part of why they cost more. In the face of dangerous Halloween candy, they may serve you better than the resin option. However, a ceramic veneer cannot be repaired. It must be replaced, while a resin veneer can be repaired and returned to its original appearance and function.
Which Foods Should I Avoid?
When it comes to Halloween candy, the rule of thumb that’s always been true with oral hygiene—regular brushing and flossing—will remain true with your veneers. Brushing twice per day and flossing once per day will go a long way toward keeping them clean, healthy, and strong. With that in mind, it’s still a good idea to avoid certain foods altogether during the holiday. Also, depending on which phase of the installation you’re in, the foods will change. With the temporary ones that are provided while ceramic veneers are being made, the list is longer. It includes:
- Hard food, such as candies, candy apples, etc.
- Crunchy food, such as nuts and seeds
- Food that can leave stains
- Chocolate
- Sticky food such as gum or caramel
As for the ceramic veneers, avoiding hard food is important, but most other Halloween candy should be harmless as long as you don’t forget your oral hygiene routine. If you have any other questions about your cosmetic dentistry or need to have it replaced or cleaned, please don’t hesitate to contact our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Busch.