Can You Whiten Crowns? 

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Are you unhappy with the color of your teeth? Usually, a teeth whitening treatment can make a striking difference and really transform your smile. But, you may want to hold on for a minute before booking your appointment at Pinewood Dentistry if you have a dental crown. 

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Unfortunately, teeth whitening does not work on dental crowns, fillings, veneers, and other restorative prosthetics. Why's that and what can you do to achieve a brighter smile? 

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Keep reading to find out. 

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How Do Teeth Whitening Products Work? 

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Teeth whitening products use a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide to break down and remove stains or discoloration on the surface of the teeth. This substance can penetrate the tooth enamel and break down the stain-causing molecules.

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But, this is possible because human teeth are porous and can absorb the whitening agent. The same cannot be said about dental crowns. 

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Why Do Teeth Whitening Products Don't Work on Dental Crowns? 

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Teeth whitening products are not effective on dental crowns, veneers, or fillings because of the materials these restorations are made from (porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin.) Because these materials aren't porous like your teeth, the bleaching agent can't penetrate them and break down stain molecules. 

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If you were to whiten your teeth with a dental crown on, you will get an uneven-looking smile. Your teeth will change their color while the crown will remain the same. 

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How to Achieve a Whiter Smile with Dental Crowns 

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Even though dental crowns can't be whitened, you still have a few options that can allow you to brighten your smile: 

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• Professional cleaning: Regular dental cleanings can help maintain your dental crown for longer. The dentist can remove surface stains and restore the original brightness of your crowns. 

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• Replacement: If your dental crown is severely stained or you want it to match the color of your newly whitened natural teeth, the only option is to have the crown replaced. If your crown is old and discolored, make sure to whiten your teeth first and then get the crown made in the shade of your newly whitened teeth. 

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• Surface treatments: In some cases, your dentist may be able to apply treatments to the surface of the crown to minimize staining and discoloration. This could include applying a veneer-like material over the crown or polishing the surface with a mild abrasive to remove superficial stains. These treatments are usually not as effective as replacing the crown but could be an option. 

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Discuss Your Options with Dr. Lincoln Fantaski

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If you're unhappy with your smile but don't know how to revamp it, book an appointment with Dr. Lincoln Fantaski at Pinewood Dentistry. Together you can determine the best course of action for your needs and achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. 

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Call us at (678) 765-9995 or send us a message online to request an appointment. 

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