Having a bright and confident smile is something many people desire. With advancements in dental technology, achieving the perfect smile has become more accessible than ever before. Teeth whitening procedures have become popular as a fast and effective way to improve the appearance of our teeth. When it comes to dental crowns, which are typically used to restore damaged or discolored teeth, we’ve noticed that many people Google the question “Can dental crowns be whitened?”.
In this week’s blog from Dental Center 4Smile, we will explore the possibilities for whitening dental crowns and clarify the available options.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns, often referred to as “dental caps,” are prosthetic restorations that mimic the shape, size, and color of a tooth and are permanently fixed to a dental implant or a shaped tooth. They are usually made from materials such as full ceramic Emax, zirconia ceramic, full zirconia, or metal-ceramic. Dental crowns are known for their strength, durability, and natural appearance, making them an excellent choice for restoring teeth that have suffered significant damage or color change.
Can dental crowns change color?
Although dental crowns are resistant to stains and discoloration, they can still be damaged over time. The materials used to create dental crowns are highly resistant to staining from common factors such as coffee, tea, tobacco, or red wine.
If dental crowns are not properly maintained and excessive tartar buildup, nicotine, or consumption of large amounts of colored beverages occurs, they may darken slightly. This can usually be resolved with professional calculus removal and sandblasting.
The most common reason for a dental crown changing color is the death of the tooth nerve. If the tooth underneath the dental crown is made from full ceramic, which has high transparency, and the tooth underneath decays and the nerve dies, the natural tooth beneath the dental crown may darken, which will be visible through the dental crown due to its transparency.
Can dental crowns be whitened?
The simple answer to this question is no, dental crowns cannot be whitened in the same way as natural teeth. Unlike natural teeth, dental crowns do not contain live tissue or enamel, which are sensitive to whitening agents used in teeth whitening procedures.
Since dental crowns are essentially artificial teeth, any color change is a result of external factors, not internal staining.
If you no longer like the color of your dental crowns that were made years ago, the concrete solution is to create new dental crowns in the desired color.
Therefore, it is important to carefully choose the color of your dental crowns when having them made to match your taste and facial features.
Prevention is key
To maintain the longevity and appearance of dental crowns, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits and take preventive measures, such as:
– Regular brushing and flossing
– Avoiding foods and drinks that can cause stains
– Quitting smoking or tobacco use
– Scheduling routine dental checkups and cleanings
Advice from dentist Ivan Antolković:
“Although ceramic dental crowns cannot be whitened in the same way as natural teeth, there are different options for addressing their discoloration. If you’re concerned about the appearance of your dental crown, it’s best to consult with your dentist in Europe, Croatia, Ivan Antolković who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation. Remember, preventive measures and regular dental care are crucial for maintaining the longevity and aesthetics of your dental crowns, helping you enjoy a confident and bright smile.”
