Can You Whiten Crown Teeth?
The short answer is no, you cannot whiten crown teeth. This is because crowns are made of porcelain, composite resin, or metal, none of which respond to whitening treatments. Understanding why requires a deeper dive into dental crowns and teeth whitening methods.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are caps placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. They're a common restorative procedure used to protect a tooth after a root canal, significant filling, or extensive damage. The material used for the crown—porcelain, composite resin, or metal—determines its color and its reaction to whitening treatments.
Why Whitening Treatments Don't Work on Crowns
Teeth whitening products, whether professional in-office treatments or over-the-counter options, rely on bleaching agents to lighten the natural enamel of your teeth. This bleaching process doesn't affect the materials used to create dental crowns. Therefore, attempting to whiten a crown will have no effect on its color.
What Happens if You Try to Whiten a Crown?
Applying whitening treatments to a crown won't harm the crown itself. However, it will be a wasted effort, as it won't change its color. More importantly, it could potentially whiten the surrounding natural teeth, creating a noticeable color discrepancy between the crown and your natural teeth, making the crown stand out even more. This can lead to an aesthetically unappealing result.
What are the Options if My Crown is Discolored?
If your crown is discolored and you're unhappy with its appearance, you have several options:
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Replacement: The most effective solution is to replace the discolored crown with a new one that matches the desired shade of your teeth. This involves removing the old crown and having a new one custom-made to fit your tooth. Your dentist will help you choose a color that blends seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
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Veneers: If the discoloration is minimal and only affecting a small area, your dentist might suggest porcelain veneers. These are thin shells bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance.
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Professional Teeth Whitening (for natural teeth): Before getting a crown, you might consider professional teeth whitening to achieve your desired shade for your natural teeth. This will ensure a better color match for your new crown.
How Can I Maintain the Color of My Crowns?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preserving the appearance of your crowns. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings can help prevent staining and maintain the longevity of your crowns.
Can I Whiten My Teeth Before Getting a Crown?
Yes! It's highly recommended that you whiten your natural teeth to your desired shade before getting a crown placed. This allows your dentist to accurately match the color of the crown to your newly whitened teeth, resulting in a more natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
In summary, you cannot whiten a dental crown. If you are concerned about the color of your crown, consult your dentist to discuss replacement, veneers, or other options to improve your smile's appearance. Remember proactive dental care can significantly impact the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your teeth and dental restorations.
