Dental veneers are custom-made, thin shells of material permanently bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. The question of when you can safely eat after placement depends on two factors: the local anesthetic wearing off and whether you are eating on temporary or permanent restorations.
Eating Immediately After Placement
The most immediate concern following the final bonding of permanent veneers is the lingering effects of the local anesthetic, not the cement. The numbing effect from the injection typically lasts between one and four hours, depending on the type and amount of anesthetic used and the patient’s individual metabolism. It is highly recommended that you wait until all feeling returns to your lips, tongue, and cheeks before attempting to eat anything. Eating while numb creates a significant risk of accidentally biting and injuring the soft tissues of your mouth without realizing it. If you must consume something immediately, stick to soft, lukewarm, non-staining liquids or very soft foods that do not require any chewing.
Dietary Rules for Temporary Veneers
The dietary rules change significantly when you are wearing temporary veneers, which is typically for one to three weeks while the permanent set is being fabricated. Temporary veneers are made of a less durable material and are held in place with a weaker, temporary cement. This means the temporaries are highly prone to dislodging or fracturing. You must strictly avoid foods that are hard, sticky, or require excessive force to chew.
Hard and Sticky Foods
Hard foods can easily chip or break the temporary material:
- Nuts
- Raw carrots
- Hard candies
- Ice
Sticky foods pose a major risk because the tacky texture can pull the temporary veneer completely off the tooth:
- Caramel
- Chewing gum
- Taffy
- Toffee
Tough or chewy items, including crusty bread, bagels, and tough cuts of meat, should also be avoided because they require a tearing motion that can loosen the restoration. When eating acceptable soft foods like mashed potatoes, eggs, or soft pasta, always cut them into small, manageable pieces. Try to chew primarily with your back teeth, the molars, and avoid biting directly into food with the front temporary veneers.
Long-Term Maintenance for Permanent Veneers
Once permanent veneers are bonded, the focus shifts to preventing long-term damage and staining. Porcelain veneers are highly durable and stain-resistant, but they are not indestructible, and the bonding material at the edges can still be vulnerable. You should continue to avoid habits that place excessive, concentrated force on the porcelain, such as chewing on ice, pen caps, or fingernails, as these can cause the porcelain to chip or fracture.
While porcelain resists stains better than natural tooth enamel, the resin cement used to bond the veneer to the tooth can be susceptible to discoloration over time. Therefore, it is wise to limit the consumption of high-pigment beverages and foods.
Staining Items
- Coffee
- Red wine
- Dark teas
- Berries
If you indulge in these staining items, drinking through a straw can help minimize contact with the veneer surfaces. Rinsing your mouth with water immediately after consuming highly pigmented or acidic foods and drinks can also help maintain the veneer’s bright appearance.
Managing Post-Procedure Sensitivity
A common side effect of veneer placement is a temporary increase in thermal sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. This occurs because a thin layer of enamel is removed to prepare the tooth, exposing the underlying dentin layer, and the adjustment to the new restoration can cause minor irritation. This sensitivity usually resolves within a few days to a couple of weeks as the tooth adjusts to the new covering. To eat comfortably during this adjustment period, avoid foods and drinks that are extremely hot or cold. Using a desensitizing toothpaste can help reduce discomfort when brushing or eating. If the sensitivity is persistent or severe, contact your dental provider, as it could indicate an underlying issue with the veneer’s fit or bite alignment.