Is smiling confidently difficult due to permanent stains, unsightly chips, and other imperfections? Luckily, there is a solution: cosmetic dentistry! Designed to address dental flaws, the treatments that fall under this umbrella of dental care can brighten, straighten, and enhance your smile, but for how long? Keep reading to learn the answer to the question, “How long does cosmetic dentistry last?”
Veneers
One of the most popular cosmetic dental services today is veneers. With the ability to conceal numerous dental flaws at once and a quick turnaround time (the entire process can be completed in as little as two visits), it’s not hard to see why. The good news is that they can also last for 10+ years with proper care! Since they are stain-resistant, keeping them in pristine condition largely revolves around implementing a solid oral hygiene routine, visiting your dentist every six months, and avoiding unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on ice.
Direct Bonding
Like veneers, direct bonding can effectively address everything from small chips to permanent discoloration. Unlike veneers, however, the results typically only last between three and five years. Since the composite resin is not as stain-resistant, limiting your intake of dark-colored foods and beverages, like coffee, is key. In addition, you should brush your teeth after each meal, floss daily, and prioritize your six-month dental checkups and cleanings.
Metal-Free Restorations
Metal-free restorations are comprised of high-quality materials, making them incredibly durable. As a result, they can often last for 15+ years depending on lifestyle factors, like whether or not you smoke and how well you care for your teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can brighten your teeth up to eight shades in just one visit – no wonder it’s such a sought-after treatment! The results can last anywhere from a couple of months to a few years. Again, it depends on how well you care for your smile. Avoiding pigmented foods and beverages, like balsamic glazes and sodas, brushing twice a day, and visiting your dentist for touch-up appointments will all go a long way in preserving your bright, beautiful smile.
Gum Recontouring
In many cases, gum recontouring results can last for years, allowing patients to leave their once-gummy smile in the past. In this case, preserving your new and improved smile relies heavily on a solid dental care routine. This starts with brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist for a dental checkup and cleaning twice a year. Furthermore, unhealthy habits, like smoking and using your teeth as tools to open things, should stop at once.
There is no denying that cosmetic dentistry is an investment. However, considering the long lifespan and the confidence-boosting benefits, it’s certainly an investment worth making!
About the Practice
Voller Dentistry is where patients in and around Kittanning can achieve the bright, beautiful smile they’ve been dreaming of. With Dr. Voller leading the way, patients can expect custom treatment plans that yield flawless results. Plus, we offer a number of services, from teeth whitening to veneers, to ensure you don’t have to drive all around town to achieve your smile goals. If you have a question about cosmetic dentistry or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call 724-543-4948.