Can You Whiten Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns in Hendersonville are used to protect and restore teeth that have been severely damaged by decay or trauma. They are natural looking and can seamlessly blend with the surrounding teeth. That is until either the crown or your natural teeth start to change color. 

If that's the case, can you whiten your teeth to enhance your smile? 

Unfortunately, the answer is no, you cannot whiten dental crowns. And, here's why. 

How Does Teeth Whitening Work? 

Teeth whitening works by using a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide, to remove stains from inside the tooth's structure. This substance can penetrate the enamel, reach the discolored molecules, and break down the chemical bonds of these molecules. The result is a whiter and brighter-looking smile. 

Of course, the effectiveness of teeth whitening depends on the concentration of the bleaching agent and the duration of exposure. In-office teeth whitening, for example, is sure to offer better and longer-lasting results than over-the-counter kits. Professional treatment can also reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.

Why Can't You Whiten Dental Crowns? 

It all has to do with the material dental crowns are made of. Crowns can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and so on. 

For the bleaching agent to work, it needs to be able to enter the structure of the tooth (the enamel and dentin). But, because porcelain, for instance, has a different chemical composition than tooth enamel, and it is not porous, the whitening agents cannot penetrate it effectively. As a result, dental crowns will not change color when exposed to teeth whitening procedures.

If you are concerned about the color of your smile and want to enhance its appearance, you still have some options. 

• Professional Dental Cleanings: Although dental crowns are made from materials that are resistant to staining, they can still wear down over time. And your teeth can also change color as they are exposed to food debris and acids. One of the best ways to maintain a healthy-looking smile is by having your teeth and dental crown professionally cleaned every six months. This way, the dentist can remove surface stains and prolong your crown's lifespan. 

• Time It Right: If your crown reached the end of its lifespan, you can replace it with one that closely matches the new color of your whitened teeth. 

Your Next Steps

If you don't know what to do next or how to achieve the smile of your dreams, you can get in touch with Vibrant Dental. Dr. Michael Weis will take a close look at your smile and come up with creative solutions that meet your specific needs and desires. 

You can send us a message online to request an appointment with Dr. Michael Weis or you can call us at (828) 693-7246 for a short chat.