If you’re missing teeth, dental implants are an excellent way to fill in your smile and regain at least 80% of your bite power. They can be used to replace any number of pearly whites to prevent jawbone deterioration and give your smile a healthier, more uniform appearance. Since implants often serve both a restorative and a cosmetic purpose, you may be wondering if they can stain like your natural teeth. Read on to learn if dental implants can become discolored as well as ways to fix or prevent this.
Can Dental Implants Stain?
Teeth stain when things like pigmented residue from food or drink build up in the film of protein that covers the enamel. Extrinsic tooth stains, which affect the enamel, are usually things like smoking or drinking coffee, red wine, dark sodas, and tea. Thinning enamel can also allow the dentin, which is the naturally yellow core of the tooth, to become more visible. Since the crowns or other restorations attached to dental implants are often made from stain-resistant, non-porous porcelain, they can’t stain in the same way as natural teeth.
3 Things That Can Cause Implant Discoloration
Even though dental implants are unlikely to become stained, there are still a few things that may lead to discoloration, including:
- Discolored cement – Some restorations are attached to dental implants using cement, which can become discolored over time.
- Titanium showing through – Though dental implants can be created using zirconia, they are usually made from titanium. If the implant is placed too close to the front of the gums, the dark color of the titanium may show through and make them look discolored. With a good oral surgeon, this issue can generally be avoided.
- Scratched glaze – Implant restorations have a glaze on them to help them more closely mimic the look of natural teeth.If this glaze gets scratched or damaged, this can make them look dull or discolored.
How to Prevent Implant Staining
If you use a gentle, non-abrasive toothpaste when performing your oral hygiene routine, this will lessen your risk of accidentally scratching your implant restorations. You should also be sure to brush for two minutes twice per day and to visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings twice per year. Additionally, avoiding cigarettes and other tobacco products as well as limiting how many stain-causing foods and beverages you consume will make staining less likely. You can also consume dark drinks through a straw to lessen contact with your smile.
How to Correct Implant Staining
Unfortunately, since porcelain reacts differently than natural teeth, trying to bleach them with teeth whitening kits won’t work. If your crowns or other implant restorations have already become discolored, visit your dentist so they can correct the issue by reglazing your restorations, replacing discolored cement, or having new ones made.
With proper care, your dental implants may never need to be replaced. By avoiding bad habits, practicing good oral hygiene, and seeing your dentist twice per year, your smile will remain lovely for years to come!
About the Practice
With dental implants from Dr. Kathy Lam, the insecurity you feel due to gaps in your grin will soon be a thing of the past. These sturdy titanium posts will be paired with a crown or other restoration to give you a beautiful, strong, and complete smile you’ll love. To make an appointment with Dr. Kathy Lam and her Wheaton team or for more information on dental implants, visit her website or call her office at (630) 653-7720.