Dental implants are the best available way to replace missing teeth. They look and function like natural teeth, allowing the patient to enjoy any sort of food they like, and are implanted directly in the jawbone so they can keep it stimulated and healthy. While dental implants are stain-resistant, they can still develop stains over time if the patient does not take proper care of them. Here’s how dental implants can develop stains and a few tips for preventing or treating this problem.
How Do Dental Implants Become Discolored?
The artificial teeth of dental implants are often made from ceramic or porcelain materials that are nonporous and naturally resistant to stains. While a dental implant will not develop stains as long as the glaze across its surface is kept in good shape, abrasive or acidic materials can scratch and rough up this layer. When the glaze is no longer smooth, the implant is at a greater risk of developing stains or discoloration. Always take care to brush dental implants with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
It’s not uncommon for dental implant patients to discover staining at the edges of their implants. Your dentist can address this issue by polishing these stains out to restore the implant to its original state.
How Can I Protect My Implants from Staining?
While dental implants are in many ways stronger than real teeth, they still need the same care to remain healthy and strong. A few things you can do in your daily life to keep your implants in great shape include:
- Practice excellent dental hygiene: Dental implant patients should observe a daily oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing at least twice and flossing and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash at least once.
- Kick the tobacco habit: Tobacco, whether chewed or smoked, is terrible for your teeth and gums. In addition to being the leading cause of dental implant failure, smoking tobacco can leave unsightly brownish or yellowish buildups on your dental implants.
- Avoid foods and beverages that are high in pigments and dyes: Certain foods and drinks are high in pigments and dyes that can stain dental implants after enough exposure. Go easy on coffee, tea, red wine, colas, berries, pasta sauce, and the like.
- Stick with nonabrasive toothpastes: Many toothpastes are designed to be somewhat abrasive to remove plaque and food debris. Stick to nonabrasive brands or gel toothpastes if you have dental implants.
- Brush and rinse after meals: Brushing and rinsing after eating can eliminate food debris and harmful chemicals that can discolor your teeth and dental implants.
Don’t let unsightly stains get in the way of your beautifully restored smile. Being aware of what you consume and how you treat your implants can keep them looking and working great for a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. Publio Silfa earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Universidad Central del Este in the Dominican Republic and completed a post-graduate residency at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association. His office in Commack, NY offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry in addition to dental implant services. For more information on caring for your dental implants, contact the office online or dial (631) 676-8500.
