After Cosmetic Dentistry: How Long Will Your New Smile Last?

Thanks to cosmetic dentistry, you can enjoy a brighter grin that leaves a powerful first impression at job interviews and other important events. However, if you’re investing in a better smile, you will naturally want to know how long you can expect the results to last. Here’s a quick overview of what the lifespan of a number of popular cosmetic dental procedures looks like.

How Long Do Specific Cosmetic Dental Procedures Last?

Having cosmetic dentistry done can mean something different for every patient depending on what improvements they have in mind. Below is a list of common cosmetic dentistry options and what you can expect from them in terms of longevity:

• Teeth Whitening: Professional whitening can be a great solution for patients with stained or discolored spots on their teeth. The results of whitening typically last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years.
• Cosmetic Bonding: This type of cosmetic dental treatment is ideal for correcting one or two minor aesthetic flaws. It often lasts for around 5 years, but some people are able to maintain the results for much longer.
• Veneers: When you want to completely transform your grin, veneers are often the top option. While veneers last for up to 10 years for most patients, some have lifespans as long as 20 years.

The most important thing to note is that the longevity of any cosmetic dental treatment is not set in stone. The care that you give your smile will play a significant role in determining how long you will be able to keep your new appearance.

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

So what exactly can you do to get as many years out of your new smile as possible? Here are a few basic tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure that you’re practicing good oral hygiene. Brush thoroughly at least two times a day. Get in the habit of flossing on a daily basis.
• Stay away from tobacco products that can easily stain teeth.
• Limit your exposure to foods and beverages known to cause dental discoloration; common examples include coffee, blueberries, red wine, and tomato sauce.
• Make room in your schedule to visit your dentist every six months so that they can give your teeth a thorough cleaning.

As long as you’re giving your teeth the right kind of maintenance, you can look forward to enjoying your new smile for quite a long time. Reach out to your dentist today if you’re interested in exploring your options for enhancing your grin.

About the Author

Dr. Sheri McIntosh went to the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for her Doctor of Dental Surgery. Today, she is bringing her patients in Fort Worth a wide range of quality dental services; this includes various forms of cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, and veneers. To schedule a consultation with Dr. McIntosh at Distinguished Dental, visit her website or call (817) 337-8300.