Can Dental Implants Stain?

From injuries to oral health issues, there are a range of reasons why someone might be missing teeth. Though there are several ways to have the gaps in your grin filled in, dental implants are the only option that replaces the root of the tooth. This provides the jawbone with the stimulation it needs to remain healthy and strong. Dental implants offer a sturdy, lifelike solution to missing teeth, but can they stain like your natural pearly whites? Read on to learn whether they can become discolored and what can be done to prevent or correct this issue.

Can Dental Implants Stain?

Teeth stain when pigments build up in the protein film that covers the enamel, which is the outermost layer of the tooth. Extrinsic tooth stains only affect the enamel and can be caused by things like smoking, drinking dark or highly pigmented beverages like coffee, red wine, dark sodas, and tea, or by eating foods with stain-causing colors, like berries. Thinning enamel, which occurs naturally over time but can also be caused by things like tooth grinding, can also allow the naturally yellow core of the tooth called the dentin to become more visible.

Dental implants are generally made from titanium and are inserted directly into the jawbone. The restorations attached to them, which are often dental crowns, are usually made from dental grade porcelain, which is stain-resistant and non-porous. For this reason, they can’t become discolored in the same way as natural teeth.

3 Things That Can Cause Implant Discoloration

Though dental implants are stain-resistant, there are still some things that can cause discoloration, such as:

• Discolored cement – If your restorations are attached to your dental implants with cement, it may become discolored over time.
• Titanium showing through – If your implants are made from titanium and they’re placed too close to the front of your gums, the dark color may show through. This can make them look discolored and can generally be avoided with a good oral surgeon.
• Scratched glaze – Implant restorations like crowns have a glaze on them to help them look more like natural teeth.If the glaze gets scratched, pigment can gather there and make them look discolored.

How to Prevent Implant Staining

Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid discoloration. Use non-abrasive toothpaste when brushing to lessen your risk of scratching your restorations. You should also avoid using tobacco products and limit your consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks. Dark beverages can also be slurped through a straw so they have less contact with your smile, which lowers your risk of staining.

How to Correct Implant Staining

Porcelain can’t be whitened in the same way as your natural teeth, so you’ll need to visit your dentist if your restorations become discolored. They may reglaze your restorations to repair scratches. They may also replace discolored cement or have new restorations made if your current ones can’t be repaired or reused.

Though implant restorations don’t usually become discolored, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. By practicing good oral health and visiting your dentist every six months, you can lessen your risk of staining and keep your smile looking lovely!

About the Practice

If you are missing teeth, Arbor Dental Care offers dental implants that can fill in the gaps in your smile. they can explain the procedure to your from start to finish and can also give you tips on how to avoid staining and keep your pearly whites looking their best. If you’re ready to make an appointment with Arbor Dental Care or want more information on dental implants, call (630) 969-2310 or visit their website.