Discoloration of the teeth is a natural part of getting older, but it is also something many people are self-conscious of. Teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic options out there. It is an excellent way to enhance the natural beauty of your smile! However, what if you have a dental implant? Is teeth whitening still an option that’s available to you? Continue reading to learn more about whitening your teeth when you have a dental implant 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 lighten 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 smile.
How Does Teeth Writing Work?
There are two different types of professional teeth whitening available through dentists: in-office and take-home. Here’s how each of them works:
In-Office Teeth Whitening
If you have an event coming up and/or want to enhance your smile quickly, you may want to consider in-office teeth whitening. During your appointment with your dentist, a customized whitening plan can be made just for you. The process uses professional-grade materials, removing stubborn stains and lightening your smile multiple shades in one quick visit.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
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 you can find over the counter. In just a few short weeks, you will see the final results!
Just because you have dental implants doesn’t mean you can’t reap the benefits of teeth whitening – there’s just an extra step. You and your dentist can put together a custom plan to help you achieve the goals you have for your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Villescas earned his dental doctorate from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Since graduating, he has pursued lots of continuing education from the Academy of General Dentistry, Spear Education, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and more! To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment at his office in Port Charlotte, visit his website or call (941) 627-9900.