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.
Dental fillings repair teeth affected by cavities. However, how long they last depends on the selected material, the patient's bite, and how well that patient cares for their smile. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, fillings can last many years.A dental filling must handle everyday chewing, temperature changes, and daily cleaning. These forces…
Visiting your general dentist for a specific treatment can improve your oral health. The services that you need will depend on your assessment. Knowing the common services available will enable you to make informed decisions about the ones you will get. Here are the common services on offer at your general dentist’s clinic.A general dentist…
As part of their mission to keep mouths healthy, a general dentist offers a variety of single-tooth replacement options. Even just missing one tooth can impact your oral health and the appearance of your smile. Single-tooth replacements may be the efficient solution to restore the appearance and functionality of your smile.Losing a single tooth can…
General dentists protect the integrity of your oral health by providing preventative and corrective services. These can range from cleanings to repairing damaged teeth. Here are five ways the dentist can protect your smile for years to come.Examinations are one of the most common and necessary preventative measures general dentists recommend and perform. These appointments…
