Dental implants are a strong and reliable way to replace missing teeth. They look natural, feel comfortable, and help you chew and smile with ease. Many people who have implants also want to whiten their teeth. A bright smile gives confidence and looks healthy. But can teeth whitening work if you already have dental implants? The answer is yes – but with a few things to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll explain how whitening works, what to expect with implants, and how to keep your smile looking even and bright.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Teeth whitening Aberdeen is a popular treatment used to remove stains and brighten natural teeth. It involves safe whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which help break down surface stains. Teeth whitening can be done in a dental clinic or at home using custom trays or strips. Many people notice visible results after just one or two sessions. It’s important to note that Teeth whitening Aberdeen is effective only on natural tooth enamel and does not change the colour of crowns, veneers, or implants.
Can Dental Implants Be Whitened?
No, dental implants cannot be whitened. The visible part of the implant is called a crown, typically made from porcelain or ceramic. These materials are very strong and resistant to stains, but they are also non-porous, meaning whitening gels have no effect on them. A dentist in Aberdeen can explain why implants behave differently from natural teeth and help you explore your options. If your crown was matched to your original tooth shade, it may appear darker after whitening. In such cases, your dentist in Aberdeen may suggest replacing the crown for a better colour match.
What If My Implant No Longer Matches?
If you have whitened your natural teeth and your implant now looks darker, there are ways to fix it. You do not need to replace the entire implant. Only the crown needs to be changed. Your dentist can make a new crown that matches the new colour of your teeth. This is a simple and safe process. It’s especially helpful if your implant is near the front of your mouth, where it’s easy to see when you smile. For implants in the back, the colour difference is often less noticeable.
Whitening Before Implant Placement
If you are planning to get a dental implant, it’s best to whiten your teeth first. That way, the dentist can match your new crown to your lighter tooth shade. Once a crown is made, its colour is permanent. Whitening before your implant saves time and helps create a more even smile. Talk to your dentist if you’re thinking about both treatments. A little planning can make a big difference to the final result.
Teeth Whitening Options
There are a few different ways to whiten your teeth. Each method works well, but some give faster or longer-lasting results.
In-clinic whitening – Done by a dentist, this is the quickest method. You’ll see a difference in one visit.
Take-home kits – These come with custom trays and gels. They take longer but are gentle and easy to use.
Over-the-counter kits – These are cheaper, but results may vary and take more time.
All whitening treatments will brighten your natural teeth. But remember, they will not change the colour of your implant crown.
How to Keep Your Smile Bright
Even though you can’t whiten your implant, you can take steps to keep your whole smile clean and bright. Here are a few easy tips:
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to clean between your teeth
Rinse your mouth after drinking tea, coffee, or wine
Avoid smoking, which causes stains and harms gums
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
These habits will help your natural teeth stay white and healthy. They will also help your implant crown stay clean and match your smile as closely as possible.
Other Ways to Improve Your Smile
If you don’t want to replace your implant crown, there are other ways to create an even smile. In some cases, dentists use composite bonding on nearby teeth to adjust their colour. This can help blend the shades better. Bonding is simple, painless, and reversible. It’s not a replacement for whitening, but it can help if you want a quick fix.
Final Thoughts
So, is teeth whitening possible with dental implants? Yes, you can whiten your natural teeth, but the implant crown will stay the same shade. This may or may not be noticeable, depending on where the implant is. If needed, the crown can be replaced or other options like bonding can be used. The best time to whiten your teeth is before getting a dental implant. That way, your crown will match your whiter smile from the start. With the right plan and good care, you can enjoy a confident and even smile for years to come.
Brighten Your Smile with Confidence at Oldmachar Dental Care
At Oldmachar Dental Care, we understand that every smile is unique—especially when you have dental implants. If you’re considering teeth whitening, our team will guide you through the safest and most effective options for a brighter, even-toned smile. Whether you need advice before getting an implant or want to update an existing crown to match your whitened teeth, we’re here to help. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a confident, natural-looking smile that you’ll love to show off.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I whiten my teeth if I have dental implants?
Yes, you can whiten your natural teeth, but dental implants won’t change colour. The implant crown is made from porcelain or ceramic, which does not react to whitening gels. If needed, the crown can be replaced to match your newly whitened teeth for a more uniform smile.
Why don’t whitening treatments work on implants?
Teeth whitening treatments use bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide that break down stains on natural enamel. Dental crowns, however, are made from non-porous materials like porcelain, which don’t absorb stains or bleach. This makes them resistant to both discolouration and whitening effects.
What should I do if my implant looks darker than my teeth?
If your natural teeth are whitened and your implant crown looks too dark, you can replace the crown to match the new shade. This does not affect the metal post below. A dentist can create a new crown that blends in seamlessly with your whitened smile
Should I whiten my teeth before getting a dental implant?
Yes, whitening before your implant is placed is ideal. This allows the crown to be colour-matched to your brightened natural teeth. Once the crown is made, its shade cannot be changed, so pre-whitening avoids any future mismatch in your smile.
How can I keep my implant and natural teeth looking white?
Maintain daily brushing and flossing, avoid dark drinks like coffee and red wine, and don’t smoke. Rinse your mouth with water after meals, and visit your dentist regularly. These habits keep your natural teeth bright and your implant crown clean and stain-free.