Dental implants are a game-changer for anyone dealing with tooth loss. They’re a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth. You’ll get the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without worry. But if you’re considering dental implant treatment or already have them, you might be wondering how they’ll affect your overall dental care.
Can you still whiten your teeth? What about straightening them? And what happens if you get a cavity near an implant? Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect.
Can I Whiten My Dental Implants?
We all want a bright, white smile. But over time, things like coffee, wine, and aging can cause our teeth to lose their sparkle. If you’ve got dental implants, your dentist will match the color of your prosthetic tooth to your natural teeth so it blends in.
But here’s the thing: dental implants don’t respond to traditional teeth whitening treatments. The materials used in implants won’t lighten with bleaching agents. So, if you’re looking to brighten your smile, whitening won’t affect the implant itself.
That said, you can still whiten your natural teeth around the implant. Your dentist can recommend treatments to help you achieve a brighter smile. If you’re unhappy with the color of your implant, the only option is to have your dentist replace the prosthetic tooth.
Want to learn more about your whitening options? Schedule a dental consultation to get personalized advice with Dr. Shulman.
Will Dental Implants Respond to Invisalign Treatment?
A straight smile isn’t just about looks—it can also make it easier to keep your teeth clean and healthy. Invisalign is a popular choice for straightening teeth, using clear, custom-made aligners. But if you have dental implants, there’s something important to know: implants won’t move with Invisalign aligners.
Why? Because dental implants are anchored into your jawbone. They’re designed to stay firmly in place. That means they won’t respond to the pressure of Invisalign aligners.
If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, it’s a good idea to do it before getting implants. That way, your dentist can plan your treatment to ensure your smile looks its best.
How Does a Dentist Treat Cavities Near Dental Implants?
One of the great things about dental implants is that they can’t get cavities. Unlike natural teeth, the materials used in implants aren’t susceptible to decay. But that doesn’t mean the teeth around your implants are immune. If you develop a cavity near an implant, your dentist can still treat it without any major issues.
If the cavity is in a tricky spot, your dentist might need to temporarily remove the prosthetic tooth to access and treat the decay. Fortunately it’s a straightforward process, and they’ll put the prosthetic right back in place after cavity treatment. The bottom line? Having implants won’t stop you from getting the dental care you need.
The Takeaway
Dental implants are an amazing solution for replacing missing teeth, but it’s natural to have questions about how they’ll affect your overall dental care. The good news is that you can still whiten your natural teeth, treat cavities, and maintain a healthy smile. It just takes a few extra considerations. If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, it’s best to do that before getting implants, since implants won’t move with Invisalign or other orthodontic treatments.
And remember, your dentist is your best resource for answering any questions or concerns you have about implants and your dental care. Whether you’re considering implants or already have them, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental team. They’ll help you navigate your options and keep your smile looking and feeling its best. If you have questions about how implants will affect your dental care, give Dr. Shulman a call today.