Is Cosmetic Dentistry Permanent?

Are you thinking about getting some cosmetic dentistry? If you are, then you probably know about the variety of cosmetic dentistry options. With these options, you get a variety of cosmetic dentistry treatments designed to cater to various restorations. Typically, with cosmetic dentistry, the main concerns are permanency and the cost of the treatment. Cosmetic dentistry can be split into permanent and reversible treatments. Therefore, you will need to decide whether you need a permanent or short-term option when seeking this treatment. This article will give you an overview of some cosmetic dentistry treatments and highlight those that are permanent and those that are not.

Permanent Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

Essentially, permanent cosmetic dental treatments are those that are not reversible. This is because the treatment makes substantive alterations to your tooth or teeth structure. Normally, if the procedure uses indirect restoration to complete the treatment, you will probably enjoy your new look in the long term. Unlike short-term options, the permanent cosmetic dental treatment uses more durable materials and is resistant to normal wear and tear. Examples of permanent cosmetic dental options include:

Porcelain Veneers

Usually, porcelain veneers are thicker than the normal composite veneers. They require modification of the enamel to allow proper fitting. This modification will permanently change your tooth’s structure and lead to a permanent need for these veneers. The good thing with porcelain veneers is that they are more resistant to breakage and do not stain easily.

Bridges and Dental Crowns

Typically, dental crowns are caps-shaped like teeth, while bridges fill gaps left by missing teeth. Before your dentist can place a dental crown or a bridge, they will remove a substantive majority of your tooth structure to make room. Consequently, the treatment becomes a permanent procedure.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth that is implanted into your jawbone. Once it fuses with the jawbone, it becomes part of your dental formula and cannot be removed. Though the restoration connected to the implant may be replaceable, the implant itself lasts for more than 20 years.

 

Non-Permanent Cosmetic Dentistry

A non-permanent cosmetic dentistry option essentially does not make irreversible changes to your tooth or teeth’ structure. In general, these treatments are direct restorations that they can perform by adding dental materials to the affected tooth instead of removing parts of your tooth. Normally, a non-permanent solution can be a very effective solution for people with short-term dental problems. Examples include:

Cosmetic Bonding

This treatment uses composite resin to repair minor imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps, or minor alignment issues. With this treatment, you won’t have to undergo a complex procedure. The composite is directly bonded to the existing tooth structure.

Composite Veneer

Where little or no enamel is removed to fit composite veneers, the procedure is reversible. This is normally the case with veneers made of composite resin. Composite resin is normally applied in layers and can get applied in thin layers instead of the traditional thick porcelain veneers.

 

In essence, the longevity of your cosmetic dentistry treatment is highly dependent on the procedure and the materials used. Permanent solutions use extensive procedures and long-lasting materials like porcelain veneers. Temporary options, on the other hand, are for treatments where the damage is not as extensive. In any case, if you are not sure whether you need a permanent or temporary solution, you can contact a Toothbar dentist for a consultation. Toothbar Austin cosmetic dentists have helped a large number of clients get back their smiles through cosmetic dentistry. To learn more and get started, contact us today.