Sprucing up your smile can help you feel more confident about your teeth and leave a positive impression on those around you. Maybe you have a special occasion soon or want to feel proud of your grin in everyday life. You can turn to cosmetic dental treatments to get perfect pearly whites, but just how long do these services last?
Thankfully, they have a longevity that spans into years! Continue reading to learn how long three popular cosmetic dental treatments last and some tips on sustaining your renewed smile.
1.) Veneers
Dental veneers can last 10 to 15 years with proper care, and sometimes they can go for even longer! They have this longevity because they are bonded to the front of your teeth with a strong cement and are made from a very reliable material. They are durable and stain-resistant, so they are a great option to get a perfect smile for a long time.
2.) Dental Bonding
Generally, dental bonding can last between three and seven years before it needs to be replaced or repaired. This treatment uses a tooth-colored composite resin to fill in chips, cracks, minor gaps, and stains. It’s a great, affordable way to fix up a tooth or two to make them blend in with the rest of your pearly whites.
3.) Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can last about six months to two years. This treatment is an at-home kit from your dentist that brightens your smile. It has a high-quality bleaching gel that gives you a grin that’s up to 10 shades brighter within two weeks. It’s recommended to get touchups every six months, because many factors can discolor your teeth, such as your diet, smoking, and drinking coffee.
How Can I Make My Results Last Longer?
When you choose cosmetic dental treatments, they are an investment in your smile. You spent time and money on them, meaning that you should follow some simple tips to protect your renewed pearly whites! The good news is that caring for them is easy. Here is what you can do:
- Follow proper oral hygiene by brushing twice and flossing once a day. You can also rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to ensure harmful bacteria are cleaned off.
- Break any bad habits, such as smoking, using your teeth as tools, or chewing on hard objects to avoid the risk of damaging both the cosmetic dental work and your natural teeth.
- Drink water after enjoying dark-colored drinks to wash away staining particles.
- Continue having semi-annual checkups; that way your dentist can ensure that your oral health stays pristine for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Sarfraz Verjee earned his dental degree from the NYU College of Dentistry. He has over 15 years of experience and loves to give his patients the confidence they need to flash proud pearly whites. Dr. Verjee offers a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments and creates a personalized smile makeover plan, so you can ensure you get the long-lasting results you want. If you want to enhance your grin, schedule an appointment or call us at (713) 943-9993.