A smile makeover is something to show off and be proud of, as restorative procedures are designed to improve the form and function of the smile. Some people may have repairs done for purely aesthetic purposes and to create a whiter, brighter, and more uniform smile. Others may choose treatments that give them beautiful teeth while protecting the soft and hard tissues of the mouth and preventing complications down the road.
When done well, the results of a smile makeover should be confidence-building and long-lasting. The type of restorative option chosen, as well as the way the procedure is maintained, will impact the longevity of the treatment.
Dental work is an investment of both time and money, with the end result being a happier, healthier-looking smile. Expectations run high for the final product, and having a treatment fail prematurely can be devastating. Dental procedures have a lifespan, and the results of a makeover will vary by procedure.
As a makeover solution, veneers can help mask imperfections, create symmetry, and redefine facial aesthetics. Porcelain has good durability, and patients can expect these treatments to last at least 15 years or longer. As advancements in porcelain composites continue, they could increase the lifespan dramatically.
For patients needing to replace missing or damaged teeth, an implant acts as a replacement tooth root to which a removable or permanent artificial tooth is attached. This is considered a strong smile makeover solution, as the right maintenance and care could lead to it lasting a lifetime. However, depending on the material for the crown placed on top, this portion may need to be replaced after 15 years.
A dental crown is a restoration solution that caps a damaged tooth, though it could also encircle the tooth. Crowns are generally used in conjunction with implants, and there are several materials that could be used to fabricate the crown. Metal crowns can last for up to 50 years, though these do not usually have good aesthetic appeal. Ceramic crowns can last for nearly 15 years, while porcelain can last for up to 20 years.
Lumineers are a long-lasting way of providing a perfectly aligned or whiter smile. It is a versatile option that is created from porcelain and can last for up to 20 years when cared for properly.
There is a wide range of options for teeth whitening, but those performed by a dental professional have more longevity. Professional services can have results that last anywhere from one to three years, though the timeline depends mainly on how well a patient maintains good oral hygiene and follow-up care.
By taking good care of the results of a makeover, it can increase the longevity of both beauty and function. It is important to maintain routine cleanings and dental exams, as well as follow a good daily oral hygiene routine. Patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. Be sure to follow your dentist's instructions on which products, tools, and techniques to use, as these can vary depending on the type of dental work you had done. If you use mouthwash, look for alcohol-free options to avoid damage to the materials used to repair or enhance your teeth.
Choices in foods or drinks, medical conditions, oral trauma, bad habits, and normal wear and tear can also impact longevity. Countering this potential with protective and proactive habits is crucial for makeover durability. For example, avoid or limit foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth and dental work, such as:
You should also avoid very hard, tough, or crunchy foods, as these can damage dental work. Do not smoke or use tobacco of any kind as these can lead to stains, prevent proper healing of the tissues, and cause serious health problems. If you clench or grind your teeth, take steps to break these habits to prevent damage to your smile makeover.
While a smile makeover will provide a long-lasting change to a less-than-perfect smile, taking care of the results can enhance the longevity of the restorative solution. Nothing lasts forever, but there should be some confidence that the investment made into restorative services will be durable and enduring.
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