These days, who doesn’t want a perfect smile? After all, it’s the very first feature that people notice upon seeing you, so you should want your pearly whites to be healthy, strong, and resoundingly white – even if you have dental implants that are replacing lost teeth. But do you still have to worry about aesthetic issues like stained teeth when you have dental implants? Here’s what you need to know.
What Exactly Are Dental Implants?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are lauded as the ultimate solution. The implants themselves are small, titanium posts that are surgically embedded into a patient’s jawbone. Once they’ve fused with the bone tissue, a corresponding dental restoration is attached to the top, thereby fully restoring the patient’s lost teeth in terms of look, feel, and functionality. Under the right circumstances, dental implants can last for a lifetime, making them a far more enticing tooth replacement solution compared to traditional options like dentures.
Can Dental Implants Get Stained Like Natural Teeth?
Natural teeth can become stained in several ways, some within a person’s control, but others for reasons beyond it. The dentin within teeth naturally yellows over time, and when paired with enamel erosion or constant exposure to dark-colored pigments, such as coffee, soda, tea, red sauces, and other similar items, this staining can occur rather quickly. A person might also suffer internal staining due to medications, tooth decay, or trauma. Certain genetic predispositions might cause a person’s teeth to have a non-white hue, too.
However, dental implants are designed to resist staining, as the glazes used to protect them are resilient and durable! This isn’t a guarantee, though – patients must still take excellent care of their implants to prevent their surfaces from discoloring. For example, using abrasive materials on your teeth, or continuing to consume dark-colored beverages and foods with negligent hygiene habits, can cause your implants to become stained. Smoking or using tobacco products can have the same effect. To put it simply, if the glazing on your restoration becomes compromised, staining will likely result.
How Can I Address Dental Staining?
If you’re unhappy with the shade of your teeth and you don’t have dental implants, teeth whitening treatment is often the go-to answer. But those with dental implants cannot simply whiten in a similar manner. Dental implants will require professional treatment in the form of polishing, re-glazing, or even replacement if their discoloration is severe. However, it’s also important to keep in mind that this issue is more of an annoyance than an urgent problem. That said, if your dental implants have become discolored due to an underlying oral health issue, your dentist can review possible treatment options for getting things back on track.
Of course, it will always be best to prevent dental staining as much as you can! Brush daily, continue to see your dentist every six months, and be mindful about the foods and drinks you’re consuming – you’ll be rewarded with a healthy, glowing smile for life!
About the Practice
Our team here at Winthrop Street Dentistry has proudly served patients and families in Worcester and the surrounding area for several years under the talented leadership of Dr. Evan Yu and Dr. Harry Golnazarian. We’re excited to offer a wide range of dental services including full-service dental implants! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or by phone for more information. Telephone: (508) 756-0990.