Those who want to improve their smile typically can’t wait to see the amazing results and feel a rise in confidence. However, some people immediately want to know when the luster of their new smile will fade. Depending on your perspective, you can call someone who looks at life this way a cynic or a realist. Either way, it’s a smart concept to think about before you move forward. In this post, you’ll learn how long various cosmetic dentistry procedures are expected to last, what factors go into their lifespans, and what you can do to get the most out of your treatment.
How Long Does Each Cosmetic Dental Treatment Last?
Not all procedures have the same lifespan, so it’s important to consider each one independently.
Veneers and metal-free restorations: These tend to remain in working condition for about 15 years, but they can go up to 20 before needing replacement.
Teeth whitening: Teeth stain rather easily and quickly, so teeth whitening treatment is usually repeated about every two to three years.
White spot treatment: Unnaturally white spots, caused by demineralization, often result from braces brackets; however, once you’ve been treated with Icon resin infiltration, it eventually comes back about every five years. If you need this treatment, it’s a good idea to stick with a dentist who offers this unique service.
Gum recontouring: Gum tissue does not grow back once it has been removed or lost. As a result, it is regarded as permanent treatment. However, gums could recede further, revealing too much tooth surface.
What Determines How Long Cosmetic Dental Treatment Lasts?
All of the timelines mentioned above are estimates and general trends because the duration of your treatment depends on how well you take care of your smile. Just like many other things in life, your smile’s condition will decline faster if you don’t maintain it properly. If you’ve gone through the expense and time to go through cosmetic dentistry, you might as well protect that investment and make it last as long as possible.
How Can I Extend the Lifespan of My Cosmetic Dental Treatment?
Your cosmetic improvements can last longer if you take the time to keep your teeth in excellent condition through small habits in your lifestyle, including the following:
- Daily brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
- Visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and professional cleanings.
- Limiting your sugar consumption to control oral bacteria.
- Staying away from or limiting foods and beverages that can stain your teeth or dental prosthetics.
- Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash daily to strengthen your tooth enamel.
- Never using your teeth to open or cut through packages or chewing on hard objects.
You don’t have to be a cynical person to question the lifespan of the services you want to get. It’s a pragmatic, realistic expectation and standard to set for yourself. Knowing this information now can help you do your best to maximize your time with your beautiful smile!
About the Practice
Beach Dental’s Dr. Jason Parli and Dr. Alexis Gersten welcome patients from any area surrounding Westhampton, East Quogue, East Moriches, Manorville, and Westhampton Beach. Our cosmetic services include veneers, white spot treatment, teeth whitening, metal-free restorations, and gum recontouring. Do you have questions about cosmetic dentistry or specific treatments? Please reach out to us online or call our office at 631-325-0731 to set up a consultation, when we will happily address all your concerns.