If you’ve invested in a dental implant to replace a lost tooth, you’ve made an excellent decision. As the only method of mimicking both the tooth root and the crown, it provides unmatched benefits not possible using any other prosthetic. Not only should you never need a replacement, but your dental implant should never discolor. However, your natural teeth can stain. Teeth whitening may not be the best solution to restore a vibrant smile. Here’s why teeth whitening and dental implants can be a bad mix.
Can Dental Implants Discolor?
Your restoration attached to your implant is made of all-ceramic materials. Although it looks like a real tooth, it isn’t porous, like enamel. Therefore, it can’t discolor.
However, it can look stained if the protective coating on its surface is damaged. Abrasive dental hygiene products and aggressive brushing habits can scratch the coating. Food residue and plaque can get trapped in the crevasses, causing your dental implant to look stained.
Your Natural Teeth Can Still Stain
It’s normal for teeth to change color over time for many reasons, like enamel loss, drinking a lot of coffee, or smoking. Whitening treatments can improve the color of your teeth by up to 8 shades.
Risks of Teeth Whitening with Dental Implants
Teeth whitening will get your enamel many shades whiter, but your dental implant won’t change color. This can cause it to stand out, making it look unnatural.
Ingredients in the whitening gel may also weaken the bonding material holding your restoration in place, which can cause it to fall off.
You Can Achieve a Bright Smile
Some dentists may recommend teeth whitening before the restoration phase of getting dental implants. If you have concerns about discoloration after already having dental implants, your cosmetic dentist can create a personalized plan to revamp your pearly whites.
They may recommend removing your restoration to whiten your teeth using a professional system. If necessary, they can reshade your restoration to match the new color of your teeth to ensure seamless results.
Maintaining a Bright Smile
Your smile can stay bright and beautiful by practicing a few good habits, like:
- Use the Correct Products: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching your dental implants or damaging your enamel.
- Brush and Floss: Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes and floss every night.
- Watch What You Eat and Drink: Moderate your consumption of anything that may stain your teeth, like blackberries, red wine, and coffee.
- Visit Your Dentist: Schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months. They’ll keep your mouth healthy and your smile looking its best.
You can enjoy dazzling results that can surpass the test of time with dental implants and a great maintenance plan.
About Dr. Henry Diep
Dr. Diep achieved his dental degree from Midwestern University and has continued his education to provide various specialties, like teeth whitening and dental implants. He is a proud member of the California Dental Association. Book an appointment through his website or call his office at (510) 314-8426.