Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic treatment that can enhance the brightness of your smile, but what if you have dental implants? Many patients wonder if teeth whitening is as effective on their prosthetics as their natural teeth. Continue reading to learn all about teeth whitening and how it affects dental implants.
The Structure of Teeth
Before tackling the question of whether dental implants can be brightened, you should first understand how teeth are structured. Your pearly whites consist of three distinct layers: the enamel on the outside, the dentin underneath, and the pulp at the center.
The pulp doesn’t contribute to the color of your teeth, but your enamel and dentin play a major role in that regard. The enamel is porous, which means that it’s full of microscopic holes.
This is what gives enamel its translucent appearance and allows the dentin to show through. These small holes are also what absorb nutrients from the food you eat and trap stains.
Can You Brighten Dental Implants?
Unfortunately, if you use teeth whitening treatments for a brighter smile, your dental implants can’t join the club. This is because they are made from materials that don’t have pores. The good news is that this makes dental implants incredibly stain-resistant, even if they can’t be whitened.
Teeth whitening works by penetrating teeth through the enamel and cleansing the pores with foaming chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Without the structures to support the chemical exchange, it can’t happen.
What are my Options for Whitening Dental Implants?
The best thing to do when getting dental implants is to have your teeth whitened before the implants are placed. This will ensure that your new implants are color-matched to your brightened natural teeth.
If that is no longer an option, your dentist can have your crowns remade and reattached once your teeth whitening treatment is complete. This is the more expensive option, but it’s the only way to enjoy a uniform smile once your implant crowns have been installed.
While teeth whitening treatments may not directly impact the color of dental implants, you still have options for a brighter smile. A combination of natural teeth and implants can still achieve a harmonious white through corrective restoration. Talk with your dentist to explore the best approach to enhance your smile.
About the Practice
If you’re looking for a dentist to help you with all your oral care needs, you’ll find them at Crossroads Family Dentistry. They have a whole team of expert dental professionals with decades of experience between them. From restorative dentists who can build your teeth back up to cosmetic specialists who can make them shine, you’ll find your go-to expert here. Call (434) 841-1704 to schedule a teeth whitening treatment or visit the website to explore other services they offer.