How Long Will My Smile Last with a Cosmetic Dental Treatment?

Cosmetic dentistry can give you the new, beautiful smile you have always dreamed of! From brightening your teeth with professional whitening to concealing chips or cracks with dental bonding, advanced dental technologies and techniques provide so many options. However, you want your investment in your new pearly whites to last. Read on to learn about five common cosmetic dentistry options and the amount of time you can expect to enjoy them!

#1. Veneers

Veneers are thin, durable shells of porcelain that are placed on the front surfaces of your teeth to disguise various dental flaws (i.e., chips, cracks, stains, gaps, or misshapen teeth). They can transform your smile in just two appointments and last 10-15 years with proper dental care.

#2. All-Ceramic Restorations

These restorations repair teeth while also maintaining a natural appearance. Dental ceramic is a high-quality material known for its strength and ability to perfectly mimic the look of real enamel. They’re extremely durable and can last 15 or more years before warranting replacement.

#3. Dental Bonding

Do you have an hour to spare? Dental bonding can quickly correct minor stains, cracks, and gaps. A color-matched composite resin is applied to the flawed tooth and sculpted perfectly to hide any problems. The process may be fast, but you can enjoy your flawless new smile for up to 10 years!

#4. Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments. Whether you opt for an in-office procedure or a take-home whitening kit, you can achieve a dramatically brighter grin in no time. In most cases, you can expect your pearly whites to become at least eight shades brighter in less than an hour.  Your results can last anywhere from 6 months to three years, depending on your oral habits.

#5. Clear Aligners

This is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably. Once they shift into the desired position, you must wear a retainer to preserve your results. If you follow your specific treatment plan, the results can last a lifetime! 

Tips for Maintaining Your New Smile

The longevity of your results is influenced by oral hygiene and lifestyle choices. Here are some tips to help prolong the lifespan of your treatment:

• Maintain a good oral hygiene routine (brush twice a day and floss daily)
• Avoid smoking and other tobacco products
• Watch your intake of sugary, acidic, and processed foods
• Visit your dentist biannually for cleanings and exams

Although the lifespan for each cosmetic dental treatment varies, you can ensure your new smile will last as long as possible with proper dental care and healthy habits!

About the Practice

Laketown Family Dental is eager to help you transform your smile with the expertise of its two dentists. Both are Fellows of the Academy of General Dentistry and offer a full range of dental services. By using personalized plans and advanced technology, they can upgrade your teeth with all the cosmetic treatments listed above. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (231) 737-2273.