If you’re frustrated by flaws in your teeth, you’re not alone! Countless people have turned to cosmetic dentistry to resolve aesthetic imperfections in their smiles. Whether you want to remove external stains, mend chips and cracks, or straighten your grin, there are solutions to help. That said, most elective services aren’t covered by dental insurance policies and so many patients want to be sure the benefits are worth the cost. Keep reading to learn more about 3 common cosmetic treatments and how long you can expect the results to last, so you can make informed decisions!
Treatment #1: Teeth Whitening
Having a perfectly shiny, white smile has become part of today’s beauty standards and can be seen everywhere from models in magazines to your favorite movie stars. If your teeth are darkened by years’ worth of consuming foods that stain, then whitening them is a simple and easy enhancement. You might feel tempted to pick up a kit from your local store, but the bleaching agents in over-the-counter products are notorious for causing tooth sensitivity.
Your dentist, meanwhile, has access to professional-grade ingredients that get better results without causing the same discomfort. You can lighten your grin by several shades during a single in-office visit or request a take-home kit with customized trays to get top-quality results from the comfort of your own home. You can expect your teeth to be brighter for anywhere from 6 months to 3 years. Consistently brushing and flossing twice daily is the best way to keep the lighter shade for longer.
Treatment #2: Porcelain Veneers
If you want to address one or more aesthetic dental flaws all at once, then this may be the best option for you. Porcelain veneers are thin, ceramic shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can hide several issues like chips, fractures, stains, and minor overcrowding or misalignments. They’re customized to match your natural teeth so no one can tell the difference.
To position veneers correctly along your gumline, your dentist will need to remove a thin layer of enamel from your pearly whites. This doesn’t grow back which means the change is irreversible and your tooth will be slightly weaker. Fortunately, veneers are coated with a glaze durable enough to resist breaking which shields your teeth from potential harm. They can last 15+ years with the right care, making this an excellent long-term improvement. Avoid eating overly hard foods that can break them, and they could last for decades.
Treatment #3: Cosmetic Dental Bonding
This method can repair similar issues as veneers but is a less invasive option. Your dentist applies color-matched composite resin to your tooth and molds it into the ideal shape to mend breaks, cracks, and discoloration. Then, they harden it in place using a special curing light. Treatment can often be completed in a single, hour-long appointment and doesn’t require removing any enamel. That makes this an efficient and non-invasive way to perfect your smile.
If you think you’re sacrificing longevity for convenience with dental bonding, think again! Although it eventually will wear down naturally, it can last anywhere from 5 to 15+ years. To keep it looking fresh, limit your exposure to foods and beverages that stain.
If you have more questions about the outcome of your desired treatment, schedule a consultation appointment with your dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Jonathan H. Cohen takes the time to understand your unique dental needs to provide solutions that enhance your smile and improve your oral health. He is a graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and completed a General Practice Residency at University Hospital in Syracuse. Now, he provides a full range of services to patients of all ages under one roof, including cosmetic treatments. If you’re interested in addressing imperfections in your teeth, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (904) 230-2961.