Illustrated tooth with the letters 'FAQ' labeled inside

Have you ever looked at your smile in a picture and wished it could be brighter, straighter, or more balanced? Don’t worry – there’s a solution: cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening, composite bonding, and veneers are just a few common smile-enhancing treatments that can enhance your smile and your confidence, but will the results last?

If you’ve asked yourself, “How long does cosmetic dentistry last?” then our West Bloomfield specialists have the answer you’ve been looking for. Read on!

Composite Bonding

Composite bonding, also known as dental bonding, employs resin material to repair decayed, damaged, or discolored teeth. Other uses include improving tooth shape and closing gaps.

Over time, the bonding agent wears away from eating and drinking. Depending on how such activities affect your oral health, its average life expectancy ranges from three to ten years.

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a process that improves the color of your teeth. It uses a safe bleaching solution and light to remove stains, restoring teeth to their natural white coloring.

Due to food chemicals that cause discoloring, whitening lasts from 6 months to three years. However, most patients will need to visit their dentist for more treatment within a year of starting.

Dental Veneers

A dental veneer reshapes, resizes, or changes the color of your tooth. Crafted from high-quality materials, like porcelain, they are placed securely on the front-facing surfaces of your teeth to transform your smile. One of the biggest benefits of this cosmetic dental treatment is that it can last for 15+ years! Just make sure to brush, floss, and get a dental cleaning every six months to keep them in pristine condition.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a ‘cap’ placed over a chipped or damaged tooth. When properly placed, it fixes not only your cosmetic complaint but strengthens said tooth for many years.

Just like veneers, crowns are highly durable. They can last up to 15 years with good care before needing to change out.

Help Treatment Last with Oral Care

To ensure your cosmetic dentistry’s effects last as long as possible, you need to regularly clean your teeth, gums, and mouth. To that end, it’s important to remember the following:

  • Brush twice daily
  • Floss daily
  • Pay regular visits to your dentist and hygienist
  • Stop smoking
  • Limit sugary and acidic foods

Even if it isn’t fun, try to remember how long these dental treatments last. That way, you’ll know when it’s time for your dentist to brighten your smile once again!

About the Author

Lakeview Family Dental is based in the Michigan cities of Keego Harbor, West Bloomfield Township, and Southfield. Providing comprehensive dental care for the whole family, their services include preventive, cosmetic, restorative, and pediatric dental treatments. They are especially known to transform patients’ teeth into gleaning smiles with state-of-the-art aesthetic techniques. For more information or to schedule an appointment, the practice can be reached at their website or by phone at (248)-363-3304.