I have a missing front tooth. The adult tooth never came in when I was younger, so I’ve always had a fake tooth there since my pre-teen years. I’m older now and am thinking about getting a dental implant placed. But, first I’ll want my teeth whiter. When I get my teeth whitened, will it also whiten my false tooth?

Nancy B. – Idaho

Nancy,

It sounds like you have a congenitally missing tooth. It’s not uncommon.

Unfortunately, teeth whitening only affects natural tooth structure, so your fake tooth will not change. However, because you’re getting a dental implant in its place it won’t matter.

I would go forward with your teeth whitening, in order to get your natural teeth the color you want. Then, your dentist can make the implant crown to match the rest of your teeth.

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