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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

How long does teeth bonding last?

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I have 2 chipped teeth. I am deciding on whether to fix it with porcelain veneers or teeth bonding. How long does teeth bonding last? Thanks. Veronica

Veronica – Dental bonding works well for small repairs in teeth. Although it is not as durable as porcelain, if taken care of, it can last up to ten years.

Smoking, coffee, and tea tend to stain bonding. Excessive alcohol consumption will weaken the bonding and cause it to wear away prematurely.

Find a skilled cosmetic dentist who uses quality bonding material and has a variety of material so that the bonding will match your natural teeth. Keep your appointment for regular checkups and cleanings. If your bonding stains frequently, your cosmetic dentist may be able to polish the stains away.

Take care of your bonding to help it last long.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek. Many consider Dr. Szarek to be the best Lowell dentist. Find out why.

Can my Lumineers be made shorter after they have been placed?

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I got Lumineers 8 on my upper teeth. They are a little too wide and noticeably too long. Can this be fixed? – Victoria

Victoria – Unfortunately, porcelain veneers cannot be altered after they are bonded onto your teeth.

Experienced cosmetic dentists know that Lumineers can often be too bulky, opaque, or long on patients’ teeth. So many cosmetic dentists use other brands of porcelain veneers.

When you receive porcelain veneers of a skilled cosmetic dentist, he or she will determine in advance how you want your new smile to look. You will be able to try in the veneers, and any adjustments you want will be made before the veneers are bonded to your teeth.

When the veneers are bonded to your teeth, changes can no longer be made to them.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Bulimia and Your Teeth

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More than 10 million Americans suffer from eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.

Bulimia is characterized by excessive over-eating in a short amount of time. Excessive eating is often followed by self-induced vomiting.

In time, the vomiting—whether it’s caused by bulimia or another condition—will affect your teeth. The acid from vomiting will cause teeth to become discolored, thin and weak, and they may begin to crumble.

There are some things you can do to protect your teeth. Immediately after vomiting, your teeth are weak, so avoid brushing them at that time. Instead, thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm baking-soda water to neutralize the acid in your mouth. If baking soda is not available, rinsing your mouth with just water can help. Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth can’t fight bacteria and decay.

If you are struggling with, or recovering from, bulimia, tell your dentist. He or she will take steps to help you preserve your teeth. Fluoride treatments can help strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay.

If you’re recovering from bulimia and you want a smile makeover, the treatment varies depending on the extent of the damage to your teeth. Porcelain crowns can be made to completely cover and protect your teeth. They will have the translucency and color of your natural teeth. If you have lost teeth, dental implants are the most natural looking and natural feeling way to replace them. After examining your teeth, your dentist will discuss your options with you.

You will get the most natural-looking restoration from an experienced cosmetic dentist who is skilled in designed smile makeovers.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.