You’ve been thinking about ways to improve your smile. After considering over-the-counter products and DIY solutions, you decide that cosmetic dentistry is something you want to learn more about. With many services offering ways to beautify your smile, you may wonder how long you can expect your results to last. When meeting with a cosmetic dentist to discuss the details of treatment, you will learn how much time you can expect your new and improved smile to stick around.
How Long Will My New Smile Last?
Cosmetic dentistry includes many different services, each of which requires a unique process to obtain beautiful results.
When discussing your options for treatment, your cosmetic dentist will not only explain how each service works but also how long you can expect to enjoy your new smile before requiring a touch-up or replacement.
On average, the general timeframe for each service looks something like the following:
- Veneers: These thin sheaths of ceramic that are placed over the front surfaces of teeth to conceal imperfections, like chips, cracks, stains, discoloration, gaps, etc. can last 15 years or more.
- Metal-Free Restorations: Highly durable against daily wear and tear, metal-free restorations are known to have a lifespan of 10-15 years.
- Dental Bonding: Using composite resin to repair minor tooth flaws, this malleable solution can have you enjoying your results for 5-10 years.
- Teeth Whitening: The products used to remove stains and discoloration from teeth (hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide) can leave teeth looking whiter and brighter for 2-3 years.
What Can I Do to Prolong My Results?
It’s important to remember that most cosmetic dental treatments are not permanent, so replacements, touch-ups, and re-treatment will likely be required in the future.
However, if you want to make sure that your smile lasts as long as possible, and you get the most out of your investment, you can take helpful steps at home to keep your smile looking its best.
Apart from brushing and flossing regularly, you’ll want to also make sure that you continue to see your dentist for regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months. This will allow them to examine the state of your smile and check for problems before they have a chance to worsen.
You can also wear proper mouth protection if you enjoy playing sports or discover that you grind your teeth at night. Safeguarding your smile with a custom mouthguard isn’t the only way to ensure your smile stays safe, though. Eating healthy foods that contain nutrients that are designed to strengthen enamel and keep teeth looking bright is also helpful.
Cosmetic dentistry can be a great way to achieve the kind of smile you’ve always wanted. By taking the appropriate steps at home, you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful appearance – one that lasts longer than you might expect.
About the Author
Dr. Christel Cochell is a cosmetic dentist in Salem who offers patients a variety of treatment options that are designed to target imperfections while enhancing one’s beauty. With the help of veneers, teeth whitening, metal-free restorations, and dental bonding, she can deliver one-of-a-kind results that last. If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry and how long it lasts, contact us at (971) 273-5910.