If you’re frustrated by aesthetic imperfections in your smile, you don’t have to live with them forever. Your dentist can address flaws with various cosmetic dental treatments that can brighten, straighten, reshape, and rebuild your teeth. These solutions can be quite an investment, though, so many patients find themselves wondering how long the results will last. Keep reading to learn more about typical timelines for 3 popular procedures!
Treatment #1: Teeth Whitening
Sparklingly white teeth have become the norm for beauty standards today. That means those with stains are likely to feel like they simply don’t measure up. You may want to avoid over-the-counter whitening kits from your local store because they typically contain abrasive bleaches that can erode your enamel.
Instead, visit your dentist for a professional whitening service on-site. They have access to professional-grade materials that can lighten your teeth several shades in a single visit. If you prefer, you can also request a take-home kit with the same materials for effective results at home. The changes can last 6 months to 3 years with the right care. To keep your pearly whites shining brightly, brush and floss thoroughly twice daily and avoid tea, wine, coffee, and cigarettes which can darken them.
Treatment #2: Porcelain Veneers
For those with mildly chipped, cracked, or crooked teeth, your dentist can mask the problem with porcelain veneers. These thin, ceramic shells are bonded to the front of your tooth to restore its appearance. This can also prevent additional damage because they’re coated with a glaze so durable that it resists breaking or staining.
There are many benefits to this solution, including longevity. Typically, you can expect your dental veneers to last at least 10 years, though it’s not uncommon for them to last 30+. It’s important to maintain proper dental hygiene so that bacteria don’t flourish around the veneer to decay the underlying tooth, to keep them in place. Also, try to avoid grinding your teeth, biting your nails, or using your them as tools because this can harm them.
Treatment #3: Invisalign
A crooked grin is enough to make anyone feel self-conscious and bulky metal brackets only contribute to the blow to your self-confidence. Many dentists provide Invisalign as an alternative to traditional orthodontics. These clear plastic aligners fit snuggly over your teeth to gently shift them to their ideal places over a designated period. They often complete the job in 12-18 months, which is much faster than the years it takes with the tried-and-true method.
The changes from Invisalign can last a lifetime but might require the help of a retainer. This is worn for 3 to 6 months to ensure your teeth don’t revert to their previous positions. If you follow your dentist’s instructions, though, your newly straightened smile can be a permanent fixture.
As you can see, your dentist has methods that can enhance your appearance for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Goldberg enjoys positively impacting his patients’ smiles by improving their oral health. He first studied physiology and psychology at Western University in London, ON before he earned his DDS degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry in 2017. He has continued to build his skills so he can provide a full range of services, including cosmetic dentistry, under one roof. If you’re unhappy with the condition of your grin, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (289) 366-3024.