Weighing the pros and cons of getting cosmetic dentistry can be difficult, especially because every treatment plan is uniquely crafted to fit each individual patient’s smile goals. While some services offer permanent results that are well worth their cost, others are more temporary. It all comes down to deciding whether a drastic boost in your self confidence is worth investing in! Read on to learn about the lifespans of different cosmetic procedures to help you determine which one would be the best investment.
Veneers
Veneers have the ability to take a smile from damaged, discolored, and misaligned to symmetrical, beautiful, and bright. The restorations themselves are custom crafted from durable materials like porcelain and ceramic as well, allowing the results to last for anywhere from 15 to 25 years with good hygiene and care. The trick to extending their lifespan is to avoid eating excessively sticky foods that could dislodge them and continue brushing and flossing like you normally would at home.
Direct Bonding
Direct bonding is one of the least costly cosmetic procedures available. It’s designed to repair mild to moderate dental damage and fill gaps within the smile caused by misspaced teeth. The bonding material is composite resin, which is the same putty-like substance used for filling cavities. Because it’s able to fuse with tooth enamel, it can withstand daily wear-and-tear, lasting for seven or more years with mindful eating habits and good oral hygiene.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth become discolored and stained with time, even if you’re incredibly careful about your oral habits, including what you eat and drink. Teeth whitening has the ability to erase stains and brighten the smile by up to eight shades, eclipsing any results you could hope to receive with store-bought whitening products. The results can last for six months to a year, depending on your habits, but with routine touch-ups, you can continue enjoying a brighter smile indefinitely.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign orthodontic trays are the perfect alternative to metal brackets and wires. They have the ability to fix mild bite misalignment, crowding, and gaps between teeth discreetly and more comfortably than traditional braces. Not to mention, you’ll be able to continue eating all of your favorite foods and easily brush and floss your teeth throughout the entire process, as the aligners are completely removable. After your treatment, with the regular use of a retainer, you’ll be able to enjoy a permanently straighter smile.
Dermal Fillers & BOTOX®
While dermal fillers and BOTOX offer different results, they’re often combined to erase signs of aging, like wrinkles and fine lines. These injectables are non-invasive and their results can last for between three and six months, depending on certain lifestyle habits, like whether you use tobacco products.
With so many different avenues available for you to take to improve the overall appearance of your smile, the best way to decide which one is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist. That way, they can answer your specific questions, walk you through what each treatment option would look like, and collaborate with you to ensure you get your dream results!
About the Practice
At Goodman Dental Care, our team is led by a father-son duo of dentists, Drs. Gary and Jeremy Goodman. They’re passionate about helping their patients discover their smiles’ full potential, which is why they offer a wide variety of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments. Plus, with years of advanced education and training under their belts, patients are able to enjoy amazing results each and every time. For questions or to learn more, schedule a consultation by visiting our website or call 410-263-1919.