Can I Whiten My Teeth If I Have Dental Implants?

Discoloration is a natural part of getting older, but it is also something that people are commonly self-conscious of. Teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic options available. It is a great way to bring out the natural beauty of your smile. However, what if you have a dental implant? Is teeth whitening still an option? Continue reading to learn more about whitening dental implants so you can consider your options.

Can You Whiten Your Teeth with a Dental Implant?

Teeth whitening works by lifting stains from the tooth enamel. Because the restorations that are placed on dental implants are not made from tooth enamel, teeth whitening is not effective at lightening them. Instead, it will lighten your natural teeth, leaving you with an uneven smile. However, this doesn’t mean that teeth whitening is completely out of the question. If you want to light your teeth, you can do so, but the dental implant restoration will need to be replaced to better match the new shade of your teeth. It is important that the whitening is completed ahead of getting a new restoration so it can be color-matched to blend in with the rest of your teeth.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

At-home teeth whitening is an excellent option for patients who want to gradually lighten their smile in the comfort of their own home. You are provided with a take-home kit containing custom trays and bleaching gel. The whitening agent is stronger than anything that you can find over the counter. In just a few weeks, you will see the final results.

How to Prevent Tooth Discoloration

Here are some tips to keep your smile bright a white.

• Excellent Oral Hygiene Routine: This means brushing twice and flossing every day. Rinse with anti-bacterial mouthwash for extra freshness.
• Regular Dental Visits: You should see your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups every six months.
• Limit Pigmented Foods: Some foods and beverages that are darkly pigmented can result in tooth staining. This includes coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato sauce.
• Don’t Smoke: Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco can cause the teeth to become yellow over time.

Just because you have a dental implant doesn’t mean that you can’t experience the benefits of teeth whitening – there is just an extra step. You and your dentist can put together a custom plan to help you achieve your smile goals.

About the Practice

At Amherst Dental Group, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Williamsville community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (716) 689-8882.