Planning Ahead: How Long Will Your Cosmetic Dentistry Take? 

July 4, 2025

woman preparing for cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry remains one of the most worthwhile investments people can make when looking to change and fully transform their appearance. Eliminating years of coffee stains and various chips and cracks is easy thanks to services like custom veneers and professional teeth whitening, but how long does it take to see results? If you have a big event coming up that you want to look your best for, read on to discover how far you should plan so that you arrive with the smile of your dreams.

How Soon Will You See Cosmetic Dentistry Results?

Depending on the type of cosmetic dental treatment you and your dentist choose, you may walk away seeing results the same day. It’s also possible that it might require multiple visits over several weeks or months before you see the kind of smile you truly desire.

When preparing for a big event, it’s important that you inform your cosmetic dentist in Lacey so they can identify which method(s) of treatment will produce the results you need within a specific timeframe.

Some of these average timelines are:

  • Veneers: Concealing various tooth imperfections with custom veneers will require at least 2-3 appointments, which can mean several weeks before you see results.
  • At-Home Teeth Whitening: With a professional kit provided by your cosmetic dentist, you should see whiter teeth in about two weeks.
  • All-Ceramic Dental Restorations: Similar to veneers, all-ceramic dental restorations may require at least two visits. It will take a few weeks for lab technicians to create the crown and return it to the dentist’s office for placement.
  • Cosmetic Dental Bonding: With the use of composite resin, which can be applied during a single appointment, you will see a flawless smile that is free of minor chips, cracks, and stains the same day.
  • Orthodontics: Teeth that are misaligned and posing a problem for your oral health and aesthetics will require at least one year to see results. Traditional braces can take 2-3 years, while clear aligner treatment may only take 12-15 months.
  • Smile Makeover: As the most comprehensive form of cosmetic dentistry available, a smile makeover can take as little as one day or a year or more. This is largely based on the type of services your dentist incorporates into your makeover plan.

Ways to Ensure Timely Results

For services that require more than just one appointment, there are a few things you can do to make sure you achieve the kind of smile you want within the timeframe you need:

  • Keep all your scheduled appointments with your cosmetic dentist. This will prevent possible delays.
  • Follow the instructions provided by your dentist while between visits to ensure there is no need to redo what was accomplished during the initial appointment.
  • Make sure you alert your dental team of any problems or issues that arise while working toward a new smile.

Also, once you achieve your desired results, maintain a good oral hygiene routine and inquire about touch-ups to keep your smile looking its best.

Take the time to plan ahead before starting cosmetic dental treatment. Doing so will have you seeing a beautiful smile that you can be proud to show off to those around you.

About the Practice
Peterson & Cammack Family & Cosmetic Dentistry consists of three esteemed dentists who care about the health and aesthetics of patients’ smiles. Offering an array of services designed to conceal imperfections, brighten teeth, and transform a person’s appearance, our team will develop a treatment plan that aligns with the requested needs, goals, and timeline of that individual. Have a big event coming up and want to look your best? Visit our website or call (360) 459-4420 to learn which available options we can provide.