Almost everyone has at least one dental defect in their smile that they would love to get rid of, and cosmetic dentistry offers a plethora of ways to whiten, restore, and reshape troubled teeth. However, the results of some procedures last longer than others, and many cosmetic dental patients receive periodic retreatments to maintain their desired effects. Here’s a quick overview of a few common aesthetic procedures, how long they last, and how you can keep your grin gorgeous for as long as possible.
Veneers Are a Lifetime Commitment
Veneers can completely transform a smile into a beautiful new state in as few as two appointments. These thin ceramic shells are carefully crafted to mimic the appearance of natural enamel, and they are cemented to troubled teeth to conceal defects like chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and misshapenness. Veneers can last for fifteen years or more before needing replacement if they receive excellent care, but teeth that receive them must wear them for life since the placement process involves removing a small amount of enamel.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding Is a Quick and Effective Fix
If you have minor chips, cracks, gaps, or stains in your teeth, your dentist may be able to address them in minutes during a routine appointment using cosmetic dental bonding. This technique involves your oral health provider applying a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin to the defect being treated and shaping this putty-like material to match the curves of your tooth. They will then harden the resin with a specialized UV light, creating a durable and lifelike restoration that can last for three years or more with excellent care.
How Can I Preserve the Results of My Cosmetic Dental Treatment?
The best ways to help the results of your cosmetic dental treatment last for as long as possible include:
- Practicing excellent oral hygiene: Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and short, circular strokes. If you are wearing veneers, it’s important to use a gel-type toothpaste that won’t scratch the ceramic material and take special care to clean along the seams between your teeth and your restorations. Daily flossing is equally important.
- Seeing your dentist regularly: Having dental checkups twice a year will allow your oral health professional to evaluate your oral health and dental restorations and correct any problems in their early stages.
- Smart eating decisions: Enjoy only in moderation foods and beverages that are acidic or high in sugar as well as those that cause stains such as coffee, tea, cola, red wine, colorful candies, dark sauces, and berries.
- Refraining from bad habits: Abstain from tobacco use as well as using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
- Protecting your smile: Wear an athletic mouthguard from your dentist when playing sports or riding a bike. If you grind your teeth while asleep, wear a nightguard to bed.
Cosmetic dental treatments may be the best way to achieve your ideal smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best ways to keep your teeth in beautiful condition.
About the Author
Dr. Russell O’Connell earned his dental degree at the University of New England College of Dental Medicine and has completed extensive postgraduate training to refine and expand his skillset. He takes great pride in delivering excellent oral health services to the people of Califon and its surrounding areas. His practice offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your cosmetic dental consultation, contact his staff online or dial (908) 832-2300.