Are you thinking about enhancing your appearance via cosmetic dentistry? Indeed, a skilled practitioner can help you achieve brighter teeth, straighter teeth, or even differently sized/shaped teeth. But how long can you expect your results to last? Will they endure long enough for them to be worth the money? This blog post discusses some important facts to keep in mind.
The Average Lifespan of Popular Treatments
Cosmetic dental treatments vary greatly in their longevity. Here is an overview of some popular treatments and how long they tend to last:
- Teeth Whitening: Professional whitening can dramatically brighten your teeth. Results usually last six months to two years, depending on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle.
- Dental Veneers: Veneers create a flawless smile by covering imperfections with custom made porcelain sheaths. These often last 10 to 15 years, though they can last even longer in some cases.
- Dental Bonding: This treatment repairs chips, cracks, and gaps between teeth using a composite resin. Bonding often lasts a few years.
- Invisalign and Braces: After completion of orthodontic treatment, your results should be permanent if you carefully follow aftercare instructions and diligently wear your retainer.
- Dental Crowns: Metal-free crowns restore damaged or misshapen teeth. These prosthetics often last for a decade or longer.
Extending the Results of Your Cosmetic Dentistry
The longevity of your cosmetic dentistry results depends partially on you! Here are some steps you can take to maintain your smile’s beauty for as long as possible:
- Practice Thorough Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once per day to keep plaque and bacteria at bay. This routine supports the health of both your natural teeth and any cosmetic restorations.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Schedule checkups and cleanings every six months. Your dentist can monitor your cosmetic work and address any issues before they become serious.
- Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages: Limit your intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries. These items can stain both natural teeth and certain cosmetic materials, such as dental bonding.
- Use a Mouthguard for Protection: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, you should wear a mouthguard to prevent chips, cracks, and premature wear on veneers, crowns, and bonding.
- Choose Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Select a toothpaste that does not contain harsh abrasives, especially if you have veneers or bonding. This helps preserve the appearance of your cosmetic work.
- Quit Smoking: Tobacco products not only stain teeth, but also contribute to gum disease, which can undermine the longevity of your cosmetic enhancements.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can weaken dental materials and make your teeth more vulnerable to damage. Moderation helps maintain the integrity of your cosmetic work.
- Monitor for Changes: Pay attention to any changes in your restorations, such as chips, cracks, or discomfort. Early detection allows you to address problems promptly and prevent further damage.
With proper care, the results of cosmetic dentistry can last a long time! Talk to your dentist so you can have realistic expectations for your smile enhancements.
Meet the Practice
At Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut, our team offers a full range of cosmetic services, including teeth whitening, veneers, dental bonding, and more. If you would like to learn more about what you can expect from these aesthetic treatments, get in touch with our knowledgeable East Hartford team at 860-288-5786.