Cosmetic dentistry is not only an investment in your oral health, but it is often a financial investment, too. This is especially true because many cosmetic procedures are not covered by dental insurance. If you’re considering undergoing one of these popular treatments, here’s how long you can expect the results to last, so you can get the most from your money.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells that fit over the teeth to change their color and shape. Veneers can also make minor modifications to the tooth’s size, as well as close any gaps between teeth. Caring for them is easy; you simply brush your teeth with a non-abrasive toothbrush and soft-bristled brush twice a day, floss at least once a day, and visit your dentist for your semi-annual checkups. With proper maintenance, you can expect your veneers to last around 15 years.
Cosmetic Bonding
Bonding uses the same resin composite material that many dentists now use for fillings. This putty-like substance is used to rebuild, or repair broken or chipped teeth, creating a natural-feeling restoration that blends seamlessly with the rest of the tooth. The material used is quite durable, however not as durable as your natural teeth, and will most likely last approximately eight to fifteen years with normal wear and tear and proper hygiene. Bonded teeth require no special maintenance beyond your normal oral health routine.
Dental Crowns
Crowns are deluxe fillings that fit over the tooth to restore a tooth that is badly damaged but that still has healthy roots. Crowns are typically made to match the shape, size, and color of the tooth they are repairing, so they blend in seamlessly with your mouth. In fact, most people will never know they’re not your “real” tooth. With proper oral hygiene, you can expect your crowns to last up to 15 years.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent way to restore missing teeth. Your dentist will make an impression of the existing damaged tooth before extracting it or recreate a tooth that fits in the empty space where a tooth has been missing for a long period. Once the impressions are made, the implant itself can be installed. This could require an additional bone grafting procedure if the jawbone has suffered any deterioration that could cause the implant to fail. Once the jawbone is healthy enough to support an implant, the implant is attached to the jawbone and after healing is given the false tooth, or crown.
Because dental implants are attached to the bone, they can last a lifetime with proper care. Dental crowns that attach to the implants may need to be replaced sooner but should last up to 20 years with proper care. Caring for your dental implants is easy. In fact, it’s the same as caring for your natural teeth. Just brush and floss and see your dentist for your regular checkups, and you’ll enjoy your new teeth for as long as possible!
While yes, cosmetic dentistry can be a significant investment in your oral health, when it comes to longevity, it will pay dividends with proper care and maintenance.
About Our Practice
Coombs, Ross & Sourlis Family Dentistry of Rock Hill is a family practice that treats patients of all ages. We work hard to ensure that our patients feel safe and comfortable, whether they’re here for a cleaning, a restoration, or a cosmetic procedure.
To schedule a cosmetic dentistry treatment, please visit our website or call us at 803-592-6201.