Will Teeth Whitening Work With Crowns and Fillings?

Teeth whitening is the easiest and most affordable way to make your smile look like a million dollars. But, if you have dental crowns or fillings, you may want to read this article first before making your next whitening appointment. 

How Teeth Whitening Works

Teeth whitening uses a bleaching agent like peroxide oxygen. These agents penetrate the enamel of natural teeth and break down stains and discoloration. The oxygen molecules in the peroxide react with the stain molecules in your teeth, breaking them and leaving your teeth brighter.

But the reason this process works is because natural teeth are porous and the oxygen molecules can get deep into the structure of the tooth. 

Things are a bit different when it comes to crowns and fillings. 

Why Crowns and Fillings Can't Get Whitened

Crowns and fillings are made of synthetic materials like porcelain or composite resin. While these materials can perfectly mimic the appearance of natural teeth, they work very differently. 

One major difference is that unlike natural tooth enamel, which is porous and can absorb the whitening agent, dental restorations are non-porous. This means that the whitening agents can't penetrate them.

So, if you whiten your natural teeth but have dental crowns or fillings, there can be a noticeable difference in color between the two. This can make the dental restoration stand out and not in a positive way. 

How to Maintain Your Crowns and Fillings White

To begin with, always think one step ahead. If you know you need a dental crown or filling, take a quick look at your overall smile too. Are you happy with how it looks? If the answer is no, then ask your dentist for a whitening treatment first. Then the dentist will choose a crown of filling shade that matches your surrounding teeth.  

There are other things you can do to ensure that your teeth will remain white and match the dental restoration for as long as possible: 

• Get Regular Cleanings: Scheduling routine dental cleanings can help remove surface stains and keep a bright and healthy smile.

• Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks: Beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine or foods like berries and curry can cause surface staining. Use a straw and rinse your mouth afterward to reduce the risks of teeth staining. 

• Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste and Toothbrush: Some oral hygiene products are too abrasive and can scratch the surface of your crown or filling, making them more susceptible to staining. Always use a non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush. 

• Know When It's Time to Replace Them: If your crown or filling has become noticeably discolored or no longer matches the color of your whitened teeth, it may be because they are approaching the end of their lifespan. Talk to your dentist about replacing them. 

What Should You Do Next? 

If you are no longer satisfied with the appearance of your smile, talk with Dr. Saimon Ramos about your options. 

Schedule an appointment with Bow Tie Dentist and let us give you your white and bright smile back.