Dental implants continue to gain popularity as one of the best ways to replace missing teeth because they offer many unique advantages. They’re the only type of restoration that’s embedded into your jawbone for added strength and stability. Plus, they’re customized to match the size, shape, and shade of your natural teeth for a seamless smile.

It’s natural to want to keep your prosthetics looking clean and bright for as long as possible. Many patients like you want to know if it’s possible to stain their dental implants so they can take the proper precautions to prevent it. If you’re curious, keep reading to learn more about it!

What Are Dental Implants Made From?

Your artificial teeth aren’t made of the same organic material as the ones you were born with. Typically, they’re anchored by a titanium pole that’s surgically placed into your jaw. This is then capped with a tooth-colored dental crown that’s usually made of porcelain. The ceramic is incredibly durable and less porous than your natural pearly whites, which means it’s better able to resist damage and discoloration.

Do Dental Implants Stain?

Although they’re incredibly resilient, dental implants are not completely impervious to harm. They’re covered with a protective glaze coating that can be worn down in time, especially if you consume a lot of acidic foods and beverages. Abrasive substances leave microscopic grooves on the surface that absorb particles in your mouth, like darkly pigmented ingredients. With enough exposure over time, your once-sparkling restoration can start to look drab and dull.

How Can I Avoid Staining My Dental Implants?

One of the advantages of dental implants is that they’re relatively easy to maintain, which can keep them from becoming discolored. Some tips for caring for them properly include:

• Don’t smoke. Tobacco products contain nicotine and other ingredients that not only stain your dental implant but can cause it to fail even years after its initial placement.
• Avoid dark drinks. Tea, coffee, and red wine all contain tannins, a naturally occurring substance in certain plants that gives them their bitter flavor. Limiting your consumption can keep your grin bright.
• Clean them consistently. Brush and floss them twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste that won’t injure your restoration.
• Schedule routine checkups. Visit your dentist for a standard checkup and cleaning every six months. This allows them to catch and address any potential areas of concern, like a loose or damaged prosthetic, before they get worse.

By making a few slight adjustments, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken precautions to keep your restoration in good shape for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. E. Charles Beliveau has more than 30 years of experience helping people enhance their lives by improving their dental condition. He earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Saint Michael’s College in Winooski, and then graduated from the oldest dental program in the world at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. Now, he offers a full array of services under one roof to streamline your oral health care. He combines a personalized approach with advanced technology to help patients feel comfortable while receiving top-quality services. He has the training to complete the dental implant process, including the surgery, in-office, so you don’t have to seek outside providers. If you’re interested in replacing your missing teeth and need a consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or call (978) 687-5900.