Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile in as few as one or two appointments. However, some treatments cost a significant amount of money, and you might be wondering if your results will last long enough for your investment to really be worth it. The good news is that as long as you take care of your smile, you can expect your beautiful new look to stand the test of time! To help you better understand the road ahead, this blog post shares the average life expectancy of some popular cosmetic treatments. It also shares tips to help your results last as long as possible.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening formulas penetrate the tooth enamel and break up unwanted pigment molecules. However, they cannot prevent future stains. Some people find that their results last for a few months, while others enjoy a whiter smile for a few years.
You can keep your teeth as bright as possible by:
- Sticking to a thorough oral hygiene routine.
- Limiting your consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages.
- Avoiding the use of tobacco products.
- Periodically performing whitening touchups.
Veneers and Metal-Free Restorations
Veneers, crowns, and other types of restorations are often made out of a very durable type of porcelain. They are designed to hold up against all the stresses that come with everyday eating and chewing. With proper care, your veneers and metal-free restorations have the potential to last for 10 years or longer (in some cases, much longer).
To keep your veneers in good shape, you should:
- Limit your alcohol consumption.
- Avoid teeth grinding and clenching.
- Use low-abrasive toothpaste.
- Avoid the use of tobacco products.
- Avoid biting on hard objects, such as ice or pen caps.
- Maintain thorough oral hygiene.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.
- Wear a mouthguard when you play sports.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin to disguise aesthetic imperfections in teeth. Although it can look similar to veneers, it is not as durable. It may last for 3 – 5 years before it needs to be replaced.
Here are a few tips to help you protect your bonding:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene on a daily basis.
- Limit your intake of foods and beverages that may cause dental stains.
- Do not bite down on hard objects.
- Wear a mouthguard if you tend to grind your teeth or like to play sports.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as SureSmile, gently reposition the teeth by applying pressure over time. After you complete your treatment, your results could last a lifetime! However, that will only happen if you diligently use your retainer as directed by your dentist. A retainer is designed to hold your teeth in place and prevent them from drifting back into their former places.
Cosmetic dentistry can last for a long time! It is a worthwhile investment that can help you enjoy confident smiles for years to come.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Bryan Griffith and Alex Hartgrove are the experienced, detail-oriented dentists at Brookside Dental Care. If you are eager to enhance your smile’s appearance, they would be happy to answer your questions about the road ahead. To learn more about how our team may be able to serve you, contact our office at 606-874-9311.