So, you’ve just received your first dental implant and you’re wondering if it will stain like your other teeth. The good news is that dental implants don’t have the ability to take on color like natural teeth do. However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t brush it, or that it will stay shining forever.
If you want to learn how to care for your dental implant and keep your smile looking healthy, continue reading.
What Are Dental Implants Made Of?
Before continuing on, it’s important to know why dental implants behave the way they do when it comes to staining. Natural teeth are made of three layers, the first two—enamel and dentin—are what determine the shade of your teeth.
Enamel has microscopic holes in it called pores. These pores are what trap pigments and chemicals from the food and drinks you consume. Dental implants are made of a ceramic material, usually porcelain, and don’t have pores. This is why dental implants are so stain-resistant.
How to Care for Your Smile
All of that being said, just because dental implants don’t easily stain doesn’t mean your other teeth won’t. If you want to keep your smile looking healthy and natural, you should take care of all of your teeth. In the process, you’ll also remove any surface discoloration that can build up on your implant over time.
Here are some great ways to keep your teeth looking shiny:
Create a Thorough Oral Hygiene Routine
Brushing twice per day and flossing before bed remain crucial even with dental implants. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup stains on your teeth, but also prevents the damage that plaque can cause. If the bacteria from plaque get into your gums, they can cause gum disease and possibly cause your implant to fail.
Be Mindful of the Food You Eat
While dental implants are resistant to discoloration, they can still become awash in surface stains from food and drink. Avoid pigmented food like blueberries and dark-colored beverages like wine and coffee. These all contain natural dyes in them that can stain teeth.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Smoking and using tobacco can lead to staining of both natural teeth and dental implant prosthetics. Quitting not only benefits your overall health but will also vastly improve the brightness of your smile.
Drink More Water
Drinking water helps flush away debris and maintains a healthy environment in your mouth. Consider taking gulps of water and swishing softly as you eat your food. This simple habit can go a long way to preventing plaque and stain buildup.
By incorporating these practical tips into your daily routine, you can keep your whole smile looking bright and natural. Regular oral care and checkups at your dentist will go a long way in preserving your smile for years to come. So, schedule a cleaning soon, especially if you’re worried about the brightness of your grin.
About the Practice
At Granger Dental Group, Dr. Joseph E. Hickey and Dr. Kevin T. Campbell are your friendly and knowledgeable dental professionals. Whether you need a filling or a dental implant, they can provide. Together, they bring their considerable expertise to every treatment, giving you quality dental care that’s customized to your needs. To schedule a dental implant consultation, call (574) 277-4235 or visit the website to learn more about the services they offer.