Now that you have renewed your smile with dental implants, you may be excited about getting their many benefits. Not only do they restore your bite close to how it was beforehand, but they also give you aesthetic pearly whites again. They may feel and look like natural teeth, but many people wonder whether they can get stained. Keep reading to find out and ways you can keep your grin fresh.
Can My Dental Implant Stain?
The restoration that sits on top of your dental implant is often made out of either ceramic or porcelain. These materials are nonporous, unlike enamel, which can make them more stain-resistant. However, that doesn’t mean that they are immune to it! You may still notice discoloration as they start to wear down. That’s because your restoration is coated with a protective glaze. As it grows rough, you may notice some staining and dullness.
There are a few habits that can lead to this deterioration. If you have poor oral hygiene or use abrasive toothpaste, then they can be the culprit. Additionally, eating acidic foods or chewing on hard objects (ice, pen caps, or hard candy) can cause some damage.
When you notice that the glaze is wearing off, then discoloration is more likely to occur. You may need to get the restoration replaced or have it repaired and polished by a professional.
How Can I Prevent Staining My Dental Implant?
You might be relieved to hear that there are easy things you can do to keep your dental implants looking pristine. Here are some simple tips you can follow:
- Keep up with your dental hygiene by brushing twice and flossing at least once every day. Rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash can help ensure you remove any bacteria that can harm your tooth replacement.
- Opt for a non-abrasive, fluoride toothpaste to keep your smile the best it can be.
- Limit dark-colored foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, berries, and red wine, as they can cause stains. Having them in moderation is safe, but you can also rinse your mouth with water after eating them.
- Avoid using tobacco, as it can cause discoloration and even increase your risk of implant failure.
Remember these tips as you are taking care of your dental implants. Doing these at home and having consistent visits with your dentist can ensure they stay as healthy as they can for years to come.
About the Practice
At La Prada Family Dentistry of Garland, we are here to help the community get the full smiles they deserve for a lifetime. With our team of skilled dentists, we are able to do the entire dental implant process in-office, giving you the convenience of sticking with a team you trust. If you want to learn more about how you can better treat your tooth replacement, schedule an appointment or call our office at (214) 227-6577.
