Dental implants offer some remarkable benefits for oral health, and they also offer the benefit of looking incredibly natural. They can give you a smile that you are proud to show off! However, you might wonder if they will retain their initial beauty. Do dental implants stain like natural teeth? This blog post discusses the answer to that question.
Dental Implants Are Designed to Resist Stains
Natural teeth become discolored when pigments infiltrate pores in the enamel or when thin enamel causes the yellowish second layer of the teeth, the dentin, to become more visible. Because dental implant restorations (the artificial teeth that are attached to dental implants) are nonporous and do not have dentin, they cannot stain in the same manner as real teeth.
How Dental Implants Can Become Discolored
Sadly, the above information does not mean that dental implants are completely impervious to any type of discoloration. There are a few factors that can cause them to lose their original beauty, including:
- Damage and scratches. Dental implant restorations have a glaze on them that contributes to their natural appearance. That glaze can incur scratches, leading to a dull and discolored appearance. Pigments can even get caught in the scratches, adding to the problem.
- Discolored cement. Some dental implant restorations are screwed into place, while others are secured via a special type of dental cement. The cement might become discolored over time, adversely affecting the appearance of the artificial teeth that it supports.
- The implants might show through the gum tissue. Most dental implants are constructed out of a titanium alloy, which is dark in color. Under ideal circumstances, the gums and an implant’s restoration make it completely invisible. However, in some cases it is possible for an implant’s dark color to be seen through thin gum tissue.
How to Keep Your Implants Looking Good
There are some steps you can take to help your dental implants retain their original beauty for as long as possible:
- Practice proper oral hygiene. Keep in mind that you should use a gentle, rather than an abrasive, toothpaste on your implant restorations. Harsh toothpastes might cause scratches.
- Limit your consumption of staining foods and beverages. If you enjoy dark beverages, try drinking them through a straw to minimize their contact with your teeth.
- Choose the right dental team. Partnering with a skilled dental implant dentist to perform your implant placement surgery can reduce the chances that your implants will be visible through your gums.
Can Implant Discoloration Be Corrected?
If your implants do not look as good as they used to, your dentist may be able to help. They might replace the cement that is keeping your new teeth in place or provide you with new restorations. Keep in mind that traditional teeth whitening products are not effective on implants.
You should not be too worried that your dental implants will become discolored. With proper care, they will likely stay beautiful and strong for many years.
Meet the Practice
The highly experienced team at Northborough Dental Associates offers start to finish dental implant treatment, as well as dental implant maintenance and cosmetic services. If you have questions about how to maintain your replacement teeth or improve your smile’s appearance, we would be pleased to assist you. Contact us at 508-571-0358.