Just How Long Will the Results of Your Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Last?

Thanks to cosmetic dentistry, you can say goodbye to the aesthetic imperfections on your teeth that have been bothering you. However, it’s important to bear in mind that the results of your treatment won’t last forever. Before you commit to any sort of cosmetic dental procedure, you should take the time to make sure that you understand how long you can realistically expect it to last, as well as the steps you can take that can help extend the longevity of your newly improved smile.

The Average Lifespan of Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

There are many different forms of cosmetic dentistry to choose from, and each of these options has its own lifespan to consider. Here’s what you can typically expect from a few particularly popular smile-enhancing procedures:

• Teeth Whitening: Professional teeth whitening involves using a powerful bleaching gel to remove enamel stains and brighten your smile by up to 8 shades. The results of teeth whitening can often last anywhere between 6 months and 3 years.
• Cosmetic Dental Bonding: If you just need to make a minor improvement or two to your smile, cosmetic dental bonding can be performed to cover any problem areas with composite resin. The average lifespan of cosmetic dental bonding is in the range of 3 to 10 years.
• Veneers: A veneer is a thin shell that can be attached to the front of a tooth in order to hide chips, stains, small gaps, and various other cosmetic issues. As long as they’re cared for properly, veneers can often last between 10 and 15 years.

How Can You Help the Results of Cosmetic Dentistry Last Longer?

If you’re happy with the results of cosmetic dentistry, you’ll naturally want to do everything you can to ensure that they last as long as possible. Here are some tips for maintaining your new smile:

• Make a point of practicing excellent oral hygiene. Naturally, this means brushing and flossing at least two times a day. Be sure to stay away from overly abrasive oral hygiene products (such as whitening toothpaste), as they can wear down cosmetic dental work.
• Be mindful of how the foods you eat can affect your smile and adjust your diet accordingly. Try to stay away from dark-colored foods and beverages that can stain teeth and undo the effects of teeth whitening. You should also exercise caution when it comes to hard foods that could damage your veneers.
• Keep up with your biannual dental checkups and cleanings. During these visits, your dentist will be able to check on the current state of your cosmetic dental work. They can also polish your teeth to remove surface stains.

 As long as you’re proactive about taking good care of your smile, you can look forward to enjoying the results of cosmetic dentistry for a long time to come before it eventually needs to be redone.

About the Author

Dr. Robert Heil graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in Minneapolis. Today, he proudly holds membership with various professional organizations, including the Wisconsin Dental Association. At Dental Expressions in Freedom, WI, he provides veneers, teeth whitening, cosmetic dental bonding, and other treatments that can help patients enhance their smiles. If you’re interested in pursuing cosmetic dentistry, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Heil by visiting his website or calling (920) 788-6280.