A beautiful smile is truly an accessory that never goes out of smile. However, if you are displeased with some aspects of your teeth’s appearance, you may not be smiling as much as you would like. A dentist can help you achieve your ideal look! How long does cosmetic dentistry last? Is it a wise investment? Read this blog post to learn about the life expectancy of some popular treatments.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening uses bleaching agents to break up pigment molecules in the teeth. However, it does not prevent teeth from incurring new stains. Therefore, the results of a whitening treatment might last anywhere from a few months to a few years.
Veneers
Veneers are custom-crafted pieces of porcelain that hide aesthetic imperfections in teeth. They are extremely durable. On average, they last 10 – 15 years. However, some patients have been able to maintain a set of veneers for 30 years or longer.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to disguise flaws in teeth. It is not as durable as veneers, often lasting 3 – 5 years or so. However, with excellent care, it has the potential to endure for 10 years or longer.
Metal-Free Restorations
Metal-free crowns and bridges are able to stand up well to the rigorous of everyday eating and drinking. Similar to veneers, they are usually able to last for well over a decade — in fact, they could endure for several decades if they receive proper care.
Orthodontia
Clear aligners and braces straighten teeth by applying gentle pressure over the course of several months. The results are meant to be permanent. However, the teeth can drift out of place if a patient fails to wear their retainer or other circumstances arise that allow the teeth to move.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Treatment
Here are some tips that will help the results of your cosmetic treatment to last as long as possible:
- Adhere to an excellent oral hygiene routine. You should floss daily, brush twice a day, drink plenty of water, and visit your dentist twice a year for a professional teeth cleaning.
- Monitor your treatment. If you ever notice that your teeth’s appearance is starting to change — for example, if you see that one of your veneers is damaged — make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
- Do not smoke. Smoking can discolor teeth, contribute to gum disease, and have other adverse consequences for your smile’s appearance.
- Make smart food choices. Your diet should consist mostly of nutritious foods that support oral health. It would also be wise to minimize your intake of highly pigmented items, like coffee and red wine.
Cosmetic dentistry is a smart investment that can provide you with many years of gorgeous, confident smiles! All you have to do is take some basic steps to care for your beautiful new look.
Meet the Practice
The two dentists at Brookside Dental Care proudly provide a variety of cosmetic services with the goal of helping patients to enjoy beautiful teeth. If you have questions about what to expect with aesthetic treatments, our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact our Prestonsburg office at 606-874-9311.