Going the Distance: How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Last?

Have you heard the saying that good things never last? Unfortunately, it can feel like practically everything has a finite lifespan, including dental work. Although you may wish your cosmetic treatment could continue to look amazing forever, chances are that in many cases you’ll eventually need retreatment. However, knowing how long cosmetic dentistry lasts and ways to preserve your results can help you make the most of whatever time you have with your perfect smile.

The Lifespans of Cosmetic Dental Treatments

Before you select a cosmetic procedure for your teeth, you should learn how long you can expect the outcome to last. Below are timelines for some of the most common cosmetic services you can find with your dentist.

Veneers

Veneers consist of durable porcelain, which makes them simultaneously stain resistant and strong for up to 15 years. In some cases, however, veneers can go 20 years before needing replacement.

Cosmetic Bonding

Made of the same material as tooth-colored fillings, bonding typically lasts about 7 to 10 years before showing noticeable signs of wear and tear.

Invisalign

Treatment with Invisalign is supposed to be a lifetime change to your teeth’s alignment. However, teeth can regress if you aren’t careful.

Gum Recontouring

Like Invisalign, this treatment is intended to alter your smile for the rest of your life, but gums can recede or become swollen, changing the appearance of your gums.

Teeth Whitening

Out of all cosmetic treatments, teeth whitening typically lasts the shortest amount of time. Teeth usually need to be treated again after about 3 years or whenever stains begin to set in.

How to Make Your Cosmetic Results Last as Long as Possible

Although the different lifespans of cosmetic dental treatments vary, methods of caring for your perfect smile are the same across the board. To extend your results, you must maintain your teeth every day through brushing and flossing. These habits not only keep cavities from forming on your teeth and infection from developing in your gums but also help remove surface stains.

In addition, you must carry on with your regular dental checkups and cleanings at least every six months. Professional cleanings leave you with a squeaky clean, dazzling feeling while your dentist can keep a close eye on your smile and make sure it stays brilliant and stunning.

For Invisalign, you must keep wearing your retainers following treatment to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their former alignment.

Even though very few things in life last forever, having a smile you can be proud of is worth striving for. Regardless of which cosmetic service you receive, you can make it last for years through smart maintenance and healthy habits.

About the Practice

At Compass Dental, both Dr. Charles Fana and Dr. Spencer Smith are members of the Georgia Dental Association as well as other professional organizations. While Dr. Fana is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. Smith belongs to the American Academy of Clear Aligners. They enjoy making patient’s smile goals a reality every day. If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry, contact Compass Dental in Savannah online or call 912-352-3955.