How Long Will My Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment Last?

Cosmetic dentistry can be an important investment in your smile, and one you’ll naturally want to make the most of. But how long a specific treatment lasts will vary depending on a variety of factors, including the individual oral health of the patient and the procedure itself. Here’s a closer look at some popular cosmetic dentistry treatments and how to ensure they last as long as possible!

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin, porcelain shells that fit over your existing teeth to change their appearance. They can be used to close gaps between them, make them look larger or more evenly spaced, and even change their color. They can last up to 20 years with proper use, and they can be easily cared for with regular brushing and flossing. With porcelain veneers, you’ll always need to have either a veneer or a crown on the treated tooth, as some enamel will need to be removed to get this treatment.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are the default restoration for most cavities these days, but it wasn’t always this way. If you have older, amalgam metal fillings that leave dark spots in your teeth that are visible when you smile, replacing them with natural looking, tooth-colored fillings can make you look younger and healthier. This durable composite resin can last for over ten years with proper care and use, and they can be used to eat a full diet, just like your older metal fillings did!

Dental Bonding

For patients with one or more teeth that are chipped, uneven, misshapen, have large gaps, or are badly stained, dental bonding can help repair and rebuild them. This treatment is fast, painless, and more affordable than other options. It uses the same durable composite resin that is used in tooth-colored fillings, so it can last for up to five years with excellent oral hygiene and proper care.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening can be done both in your dentist’s office or with a convenient take home kit they can customize for you. Both treatments can remove up to eight shades of discoloration, with in-office procedures working in about an hour and take-home kits getting noticeable results in around two weeks. Your results are permanent, however teeth can become easily re-stained, so you’ll need to brush and floss regularly, and avoid dark foods and beverages and smoking to lower your risk of new ones appearing.

Gum Recontouring

Do you have a gummy smile, or feel as though your teeth would look bigger if you had less gum tissue? Gum recontouring can help. This treatment permanently removes excess tissue, resulting in the appearance of larger teeth and a less gummy smile. This treatment can also be beneficial to your oral health and may even reduce your risk of developing gum disease or infection.

Remember, cosmetic dentistry can be a big investment, but one that’s well worth the time and effort. To learn more about which of these treatments could be right for you, schedule a consultation with your dentist today.

About Our Practice

At Indigo Dental of Daytona Beach, Dr. Lloyd and Dr. Anderson understand that investing in your smile is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make. That’s why they’re proud to offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry treatments that will provide you with years of lasting results. If you’re interested in learning more about which treatments can benefit your smile, please visit our website or call us today at 386-253-3629.