If you’ve replaced your missing teeth with dental implants, you’ve made a wise decision. A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it recreates both the root and crown. It will closely look and feel just like a real tooth, but will it discolor like your enamel? You don’t have to worry about stains tarnishing your new smile. Here’s how to safeguard the time and money you’ve spent on replacing your lost teeth.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Your teeth naturally come in several shades and tones based on various factors, like genetics. Besides your genes, age and lifestyle habits can also affect the color of your teeth. Your enamel is a porous material, allowing darkly pigmented foods and drinks to slip below the surface. Smoking and other substances can also diminish the vibrancy of your smile.
Do Dental Implants Stain?
You never need to worry about cavities when choosing dental implants, but there’s another concern you can take off your plate. Dental implants should never discolor with the right maintenance. They are designed to resist staining. Although it’s rare, it can occur if the glazing on your restoration is compromised, such as from aggressive brushing habits.
The glazing provides a protective barrier for your restoration, which means it is strong and durable. However, it can wear down over time like your enamel. Acidic foods and drinks or improper oral hygiene care can damage the glaze. Unfortunately, bleaching won’t have any effect on restoring the color of dental implants.
You can experience color inconsistencies in another way as well. Your natural teeth are still vulnerable to discoloration. They will change color at a quicker rate than a dental implant. As a result, your restoration may no longer blend in with your natural smile as the years’ pass.
How Can I Protect My Dental Implants?
Protecting both your teeth and dental implants from stains is easy. Besides limiting your contact with stain-causing factors, like smoking or coffee, you will also need the right dental products. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to remove plaque and food residue from your smile. The gentle products will prevent eroding your enamel and the glaze.
Don’t forget to watch what you eat and drink. Always choose water instead of acidic or sugary beverages. Eat a well-balanced diet that’s limited in darkly pigmented foods and drinks. If you can’t skip a bowl of fresh blueberries or a warm cup of coffee, rinse your mouth with water after you’ve finished.
Finally, visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll keep your natural smile healthy while ensuring your teeth and dental implants always look their best.
About Dr. Stephen Walker
Dr. Walker earned his dental degree at the Baylor College of Dentistry before continuing his training in periodontics. He is an award-winning dentist who is accredited by many professional organizations, including the American Board of Periodontology. If you need an implant dentist you can trust, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.