When individuals are asked about their desired smile improvements, one recurring response often involves a wish for whiter teeth. It comes as no surprise that teeth whitening has become an immensely popular cosmetic treatment option due to this widespread desire for a brighter and more radiant smile. If you’re contemplating the idea of whitening but you have dental implants, it’s natural to wonder about the feasibility of such a procedure. Will it work on your implants? Continue reading to learn if it’s possible and to explore alternative options.
Can Dental Implants Be Whitened?
The visible part of a dental implant is referred to as the crown, typically constructed using porcelain. Porcelain differs from natural enamel in various aspects, but the most pertinent one is its significantly lower porosity. This characteristic means that it can’t be penetrated by stains in the same way as your natural teeth.
However, since porcelain restorations are not made from the same material as your pearly whites, the whitening solutions commonly used in dentistry may not have the same effect on porcelain surfaces. Due to its lower porosity, professional whitening treatments are generally ineffective on lifting stains.
What If I Want to Brighten My Smile?
The resistance of porcelain to bleaching solutions poses a challenge when it comes to professional teeth whitening for patients with dental implants. Whitening the natural teeth can result in a noticeable color disparity between the dental implant crown and the surrounding teeth, potentially giving it an artificial appearance.
If you desire a whiter smile, there are two approaches to consider. If you have not yet undergone a dental implant procedure, the recommended course of action is to whiten your natural teeth first and then have a dental implant crown color-matched to your new shade.
However, if you already have a dental implant in place, you may have observed that it can accumulate stains over time. While porcelain resists staining more than natural teeth, discoloration can still occur over an extended period.
If discoloration occurs on a dental implant, it is advisable to consult with your dentist to explore options for addressing the stains and restoring the natural aesthetics of your smile. They may be able to replace the porcelain on your dental implant. Subsequently, your dentist can utilize teeth whitening procedures to help restore the natural brilliance of your smile!
About Our Practice
Dr. Carole Emanuel and her dedicated team are committed to providing a unique and exceptional oral healthcare experience to their patients. With a strong passion for their work, each team member strives to create a comfortable and positive environment while delivering high-quality dental care. Whether you have inquiries regarding teeth whitening in conjunction with dental implants or wish to schedule an appointment, Dr. Emanuel can be contacted through her website or by phone at (303) 986-0090.