You don’t need to put up with a smile that you aren’t confident showing off. There are a variety of cosmetic dental treatments available to help you completely transform your smile. However, something that you might be wondering is how long you can expect the results to last. Continue reading to learn about some of the most common cosmetic treatments and how you can experience their benefits.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain. They are adhered to the front surfaces of the teeth to cover up a variety of imperfections, like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, undersized teeth, and misshapen teeth. Veneers are typically placed in two appointments a couple of weeks apart. Between the appointments, the patient is provided with temporary veneers to keep their teeth protected while their final restorations are being made. Veneers are very durable and can last upwards of 15 years when cared for properly.
Metal-Free Dental Restorations
Metal-free dental restorations are very durable and can last up to 15 years or longer before needing to be replaced. Just like veneers, they are usually placed in two appointments placed a couple of weeks apart to allow time for the final restoration to be made. You will be given temporary restoration in the meantime. When a tooth has experienced extensive damage, crowns and other restoration options can protect the teeth while improving their appearance. Sometimes, patients opt to replace their old metal restorations with new, tooth-colored ones for a more natural look. To keep your restorations in good condition, remember to brush twice and floss every day. It’s also crucial that you see your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups every six months.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding involves the use of a composite resin to reshape and repair imperfections present on or around the teeth. Your dentist sculpts a tooth-colored composite resin to the affected tooth to cover up minor flaws. Typically, this can be completed in a single, hour-long appointment. The results of this treatment usually last anywhere from three to five years or longer when cared for properly. While this does need to be replaced over time, it is one of the most affordable cosmetic dental procedures out there and can usually be completed in just one appointment.
Teeth Whitening
This is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments available. After all, everyone wants to show off a bright, white smile. Unfortunately, after years of using tobacco products, drinking red wine, eating berries, and just aging, you are bound to see some discoloration. Teeth whitening can be completed in a single visit to the dental office. The results of professional teeth whitening can last anywhere from a few months to a couple of years depending on how well you care for the results. This is something that many patients decide to undergo routinely to keep their smile bright.
Cosmetic dentistry may not last forever, but it is something that you can benefit from for many years into the future. If you take the time to care for your smile with excellent oral hygiene and routine checkups, you can continue to show off beautiful results into the future!
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Villescas earned his dental doctorate from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He has undergone a great deal of post-graduate education focusing on functional cosmetic dentistry. To learn more about cosmetic dentistry or to schedule an appointment at his office in Port Charlotte, visit his website or call (941) 627-9900.