Can Dental Crowns Be Whitened?

March 21, 2023

Are you tired of hiding your smile because of discolored dental crowns? Dental crowns are a popular solution for restoring damaged teeth, but many people wonder if they can be whitened. The good news is that there are options for improving the appearance of your dental crowns. In this blog post, we’ll explore the question: Can Dental Crowns Be Whitened? Get ready to uncover the truth and discover some helpful tips!

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire tooth surface. It is used to restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged by decay, injury, or wear and tear. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or composite resin.

Dental crowns are an effective way to restore the strength, function, and appearance of teeth that have been damaged by decay, injury, or wear and tear. When properly cared for, crowns can last for many years.

Source: Dentalism

Benefits of a Dental Crown

There are many benefits of dental crowns. They can help to protect a tooth that is cracked or damaged, and they can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or misshapen. Crowns can also be used to support a dental bridge.

Why Can’t Crowns Be Whitened?

Crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic, which means they cannot be bleached like natural teeth. If your crown is stained, you may be able to have it replaced with a whiter one, but this is not always possible. Talk to your dentist about your options for achieving the desired shade of white for your smile.

What About Professional Whitening vs. At-Home Whitening?

When it comes to whitening your teeth, there are two main options: professional whitening and at-home whitening. Both methods can be effective, but there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Professional whitening is done by a dentist or other dental professional and usually takes place in a dental office. The advantage of professional whitening is that the results are often more dramatic and can last longer than with at-home methods. However, professional whitening can be more expensive, and some people may not like the idea of having their teeth treated in a dental office setting.

At-Home Whitening

If your dental crowns have become stained or yellowed over time, you may be considering whitening them. While it is possible to whiten dental crowns, there are a few things you should keep in mind before attempting any at-home whitening treatments.

Dental crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic, which are both porous materials. This means that they can absorb stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and other dark-colored foods and drinks. Whitening toothpaste and gels may help to remove surface stains, but they will not be effective at changing the color of your dental crowns.

Professional Whitening

Professional whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve brighter teeth. There are many professional whitening products and services available, so it is important to consult with your dentist to find the best option for you.

In-office bleaching is one popular professional whitening treatment. This procedure uses a strong bleaching agent that is applied to the teeth and activated with a special light. In-office bleaching can provide dramatic results in just one visit.

Can Crowned Teeth Be Whitened?

Yes, crowned teeth can be whitened, but the process is a bit more complicated than simply using a whitening toothpaste or bleaching kit. First, it’s important to understand that dental crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic, which means they’re not as porous as natural teeth. This means that the bleaching agent used in most whitening treatments won’t be able to penetrate the crown and reach the underlying tooth structure.

Getting Your Crown (or Replacing It) After Whitening

Discoloration of teeth is a common problem that can be caused by many things, including aging, smoking, certain medications, and staining from food and drinks. A dental crown (or tooth cap) is a great way to cover up discoloration and give your smile a boost. But what happens if your crown becomes stained? Can it be whitened?

The short answer is yes, dental crowns can be whitened. However, the process is not as simple as just bleaching your teeth. Crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic, which means they are more resistant to bleaching than natural teeth. This means that you will need to see a dentist for professional whitening treatments.

Tips for Maintaining White Dental Crowns

There are a few things you can do to help keep your white dental crowns looking their best.

Avoid foods and drinks that can stain teeth: like coffee, tea, and red wine. You should also brush twice a day and floss regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth.

Additionally, try to avoid grinding your teeth, as this can damage the enamel. If you do need to grind your teeth, wear a mouth guard at night to protect them. Finally, see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a great option for restoring damaged teeth and providing a beautiful, natural-looking smile. However, dental crowns cannot be whitened like regular teeth since they are made from materials that do not respond to whitening treatments. Instead, maintaining good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily and flossing is the best way to keep your dental crown looking its best. With proper care and maintenance of your dental crowns, you can ensure that they remain in top condition for years to come.