If you have had tooth implants for a while, you may begin to notice discoloration, depending on the type of material used to make the implant crown. Usually, with more expensive options like zirconia, there should be minor or no discoloration, but cheaper options like plastic or composite may start to change color. If an implant crown gets stained, the only choice is to get a new crown.
Unfortunately, the truth is that conventional whitening methods do not work on tooth implants because the materials used for implants are not the same as natural enamel. Whitening toothpaste works by gently scratching the surface of the enamel to remove surface stains. If whitening toothpaste is used on acrylic dental implants, it would abrade the plastic and make it even more prone to staining. The plastic would be compromised, allowing stains to affect the crown. Professional whitening methods will have the same adverse effects.
Like almost everything in life, research is important before paying for tooth implants. The investment is huge and should be taken seriously. It is advisable not to take shortcuts when it comes to implants, due to the purpose they serve. The natural teeth perform many functions daily, which means implants made from low-quality materials will not last.
Patients seeking dental implants should ensure they receive high-quality restorations. Choosing cheap implant options is the same as choosing a temporary or short-term implant. Sooner or later, the patient will eventually end up in the dental chair again.
It is not possible to whiten dental implants. Teeth bleaching methods only work on natural teeth. The restoration used for dental implants is often made from porcelain. Also, implants themselves are highly resistant to stains, so they will not become discolored. Ideally, those undergoing a dental implant restoration procedure should have had their teeth whitened before getting porcelain crowns on the implants.
Some dental laboratories may be able to transform the color of an implant crown. However, it is usually to darken the material. It would be hard to make the crown look whiter because the color is baked in. Also, adding a porcelain veneer over the implant crown will not work as well. It will look awkward and probably not function properly.
The options for whitening are limited, but there is a way to improve the smile’s appearance. After teeth whitening for natural teeth, patients will need to replace the crowns on their implants as well. The new crowns will be customized to fit the rest of the teeth. Note that this does not mean undergoing the entire dental implant procedure all over again. Only the crowns will need to change. The posts and screws embedded in the jawbone will remain intact.
While traditional whitening methods do not work on tooth implants or their restorations, there are ways to improve the appearance of your smile. If it is time to replace the restoration, our dental team can walk you through the process. Call our Gilbert office today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.coralpointeaz.com or call Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics at (480) 750-1575 for an appointment in our Gilbert office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Implants in Gilbert, AZ.
Each visit to your general dentist is important for your oral health. Checkups include professional dental cleanings. Having this regular treatment provides more than a bright smile. Here are the reasons for getting regular dental cleanings from your general dentist.The mouth is part of the respiratory system. Bad bacteria in the mouth can reach the…
Your general dentist can help you achieve good oral health with regular checkups. But sometimes, some issues need extra visits. Knowing these concerns can help you schedule an appointment. Here are the specific concerns that need your general dentist’s attention.An individual may see a strange lesion and call for an appointment about it. The dentist…
Successful Invisalign treatment relies on daily habits, not just office visits. When a general dentist uses Invisalign to move teeth with clear aligners, patients need to follow instructions closely to keep the process on track. When patients wear aligners as directed and care for them properly, each stage of treatment can build on the previous…
The goal of every general dentist is to preserve the natural teeth of their patients. This type of dental professional offers instruction on how to maintain good oral health. Cavities are one of the most prevalent oral health conditions in the world, so preventing tooth decay is vital for your oral health and general well-being.To…
