Can you whiten a crown? This is a question that often arises when individuals are considering restorative dental procedures. Dental crowns are a popular solution for restoring damaged teeth, but many patients are concerned about the color of their crowns. In this article, we will explore the possibility of whitening dental crowns and discuss the available options for achieving a brighter smile.
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that fit over the entire visible portion of a tooth. They are used to restore the shape, size, and strength of a damaged tooth, and they can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or misshaped. While crowns are durable and can last for many years, they are not as porous as natural teeth and do not respond to traditional teeth whitening treatments.
The main concern for many patients regarding dental crowns is the color. Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Each material has its own color characteristics, and the color of the crown can affect the overall appearance of the smile. Some patients may notice that their crowns are darker than their natural teeth, or they may have crowns that have become stained over time.
So, can you whiten a crown? The answer is not straightforward. Traditional teeth whitening treatments, such as whitening strips or professional whitening sessions, are not effective on dental crowns. These treatments are designed to penetrate the tooth’s enamel and break down stains, but crowns are made from materials that do not have the same structure as natural teeth.
However, there are some options available for improving the color of dental crowns:
1. Resurfacing: In some cases, a dental professional may be able to resurface the crown to remove any stains or discoloration. This process involves carefully sanding the surface of the crown to create a smooth, even appearance. Resurfacing can be a temporary solution, as the crown may become stained again over time.
2. Re-crowning: If the discoloration is severe or if the crown is too old to be effectively resurfaced, a new crown may need to be made. This process involves taking impressions of the tooth and sending them to a dental lab, where a new crown will be crafted to match the patient’s natural tooth color or a desired shade.
3. Porcelain veneers: In some cases, porcelain veneers may be a better option than a dental crown. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the tooth, and they can be crafted to match the patient’s natural tooth color or a desired shade. This option is more invasive than resurfacing or re-crowning but can provide a more natural-looking result.
It is essential for patients to discuss their concerns with their dental professional. A dentist can evaluate the condition of the crown and recommend the best course of action for achieving a brighter smile. While whitening a crown is not always possible, there are options available to help patients achieve the desired outcome.
