Remember when you bought that new car? It was so clean and just about picture-perfect. For the longest time, you’d clean off even the slightest imperfection that got on it after you’d been driving. You’re liable to feel like that about your new dental implants. They are going to help you chew and speak better than before while looking great. But you wonder, do dental implants stain like natural teeth? Keep reading to find out from your implant dentist in Cambria and get tips on how to take care of them.
Is Staining a Concern with Dental Implants?
Dental implants are usually made from ceramic porcelain, which is resistant to stains as long as you maintain the glaze on the surface. However, if you polish the implants with abrasive materials or treat them with acid fluoride, the surface can become rough and susceptible to staining. If you have dental implants, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle toothpaste regularly to prevent damage.
Also, even though implants that are well-cared for won’t discolor, the bonding material that holds them in place can. This means staining can occur around the edges. Polishing treatment from your dentist will be necessary to remove bonding material stains.
How Can I Keep My Dental Implants Looking New?
Dental implants are designed to look like natural teeth, so you should try to treat them with the same care. That means brushing and flossing at least twice a day with the use of mouthwash as well. In fact, it’s best to brush and rinse after every meal. When you consume acidic items, you should wait at least 30 minutes before brushing since your enamel will be weakened.
On the other hand, here are some things to avoid:
- Don’t use highly abrasive toothpaste. Regular toothpaste can be highly abrasive to ceramic or porcelain dental implants. Your dentist can recommend nonabrasive toothpaste or gels that will only clean the surface.
- Don’t smoke or chew tobacco. The tar and nicotine in tobacco can both discolor teeth with a yellowish or brownish look. Plus, tobacco use can cause your implants to fail, making it necessary to buy new ones for reasons not based on appearance.
- Don’t consume foods or drinks that contain tannins. Items like coffee, berries, red wine, and tea may corrode implants and leave behind dark stains that can only be removed by a dental professional.
Dental implants can be difference-makers for the confidence you have in your smile. If they are well-maintained, it is easy to avoid issues with discoloration.
About the Practice
At Cambria Smiles, our mission is to provide a truly unique dental experience where you and your family get the care you need in a warm, relaxing environment. Our three-dentist team has the cumulative knowledge and experience to perform a wide array of treatments under one roof, plus plenty of appointment time options to fit your busy schedule. If you are interested in dental implants, we can handle placement and restoration at our office location and hundreds of patients have already reclaimed their oral health and confidence via implants from our practice. You can schedule a consultation on our website or by calling (805) 927-4811.