Cosmetic dentistry can help you attain a gorgeous, long-lasting new smile – but for how long exactly? It’s completely understandable why patients want a definitive answer on the longevity of their results. After all, it is quite the investment of time and money! While it’s hard to give a specific answer, here’s a basic idea of what you can expect from some common treatments.
How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Last?
Some cosmetic dental treatments are simply more long-lasting than others, meaning the lifespan of your results depends largely on the procedure. Here’s what you can expect from the following:
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, durable, custom-made shells that are permanently placed over a flawed tooth. Whether you want a single tooth repaired or an entire row, veneers can disguise several problems, including gaps, cracks, chips, fractures, discoloration, and misalignment. Since they’re made from ceramic glass, they can last up to 15 years before warranting a replacement!
Metal-Free Restorations
Years ago, restorations made of silver or gold were used to repair broken or decayed teeth. Now, crowns and bridges are crafted from 100% dental porcelain to create natural-looking and durable restorations! Like veneers, metal-free restorations can last up to 15 years with proper dental care.
Dental Bonding
If you have an hour to spare, then it’s plenty of time for dental bonding to correct minor cracks, stains, or gaps. A color-matched composite resin is applied to a tooth, then carefully sculpted to perfection, hiding any imperfection from view! Afterward, you can enjoy your results for up to 10 years.
Teeth Whitening
With professional teeth whitening treatment, you can achieve dramatically brighter teeth in-office or from the comfort of your home. For both methods, a strong bleaching gel is used to lift even the most stubborn stains, taking years off your smile! Although results are fast, you can expect your new pearly whites to last anywhere from 6 months to three years, depending on your oral hygiene and habits.
Tips for Maintaining Your Results
Once you have a dazzling new grin, you’re going to want to maintain it! Here are some tips to prolong the longevity of your results:
- Maintain good oral hygiene (brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day)
- Avoid tobacco products
- Monitor your consumption of sugary, acidic, and processed foods
- Regularly visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams
While there is no definite answer for how long your results will last, proper dental care and healthy lifestyle choices will ensure you can enjoy your beautiful new smile for many years!
About the Author
Dr. Christine DiBlasi Laster’s kindness, personability, and extensive education make her the ideal person to meet you and your family’s oral health needs. She completed her dental education at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. If you’d like to set up a cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Laster, visit our website or call (919) 787-0355.
