Many dentists offer a variety of cosmetic procedures that can help improve your appearance and boost your confidence in your smile. But you might hesitate to contact your provider for a consultation if you’re worried the results won’t last long enough to be worth the time and cost of your elected treatments.
Thankfully, there are several ways you can help maintain the recent upgrades to your grin. Continue reading to learn more about how long the outcomes can last and how you might extend their lifespan!
How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Typically Last?
It’s natural to have questions about your chosen services, and one of the first things many patients want to know is how long the results will last. But the answer can vary significantly depending on your unique circumstances.
For example, the type of procedure(s) you undergo can determine the longevity because some naturally last longer than others. We’ve outlined some popular options and their associated timeframes below for your convenience:
- Veneers. These resilient shells are made from durable ceramic, such as porcelain, that can be customized to match the size, shape, and shade of your natural enamel, and can potentially last 20+ years if cared for correctly.
- Metal-free restorations. Tooth-colored dental fillings and crowns often last between 5 and 15+ years with proper care.
- Dental bonding. The composite resin used to address chips, cracks, and stains can often remain in place for 5 to 10+ years.
- Teeth whitening. Professional-strength teeth whitening solutions can lighten your enamel for about 6 months to 3 years, though you may require periodic applications to preserve the perfect shade.
- Clear aligners. These transparent trays fit snugly over your arches to shift your teeth to their ideal positions, where they often remain for the rest of your life. However, you may need to wear a retainer to prevent them from shifting back to their original places.
How Can I Help Maintain My Recently Enhanced Smile?
There are several ways patients can help preserve their cosmetic results, and your dentist will provide special aftercare instructions if they’re required. Typically, you can help maintain the outcome by:
- Implementing a routine. Brushing and flossing twice daily removes plaque and bacteria to avoid cavities, gum disease, chips and cracks, and dental discoloration.
- Choosing foods carefully. Steering clear of problematic ingredients, like anything too acidic, sugary, or darkly toned, can help you keep your teeth clean, healthy, and strong.
- Scheduling routine exams and cleanings. Seeing your provider every 6 months for standard check-ins allows them to monitor your dental health and catch and treat any areas of concern, and professional cleanings can polish away recently developed surface stains.
If you have additional questions about how to help care for your smile, your dentist can provide information that takes your unique circumstances into consideration!
About the Practice
Patients at Ross & Sourlis Family Dentistry of Rock Hill benefit from two dentists who are passionate about helping them build the most beautiful and healthiest versions of their smiles. Dr. Ross and Dr. Sourlis share decades of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services, including cosmetic procedures, to meet your unique needs under one roof. If you want to improve your appearance, you can request a consultation on the website or call (803) 324-5301.