Can You Whiten Crowns?

Dental crowns are a common type of prosthetic used to restore a badly damaged tooth. But if your crown is older and has lost its shine, or you want to brighten your entire smile, you might be wondering if teeth whitening treatments will work on your Jacksonville dental crowns.

Keep reading to learn the answer.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening uses a bleaching agent to break down the molecules that make up the stains on the surface of the teeth and lift a few shades.

To get the results you want, you most likely need several whitening sessions. There are also multiple types of teeth whitening treatments you can access:

• In-office treatments: Here, you’ll need to go visit your dentist and get the whitening sessions performed by them. This is a great solution if you want a safe way to brighten your smile, and have a more complex case of staining and discoloration;
• At-home professional kits: You can also get a professional kit from your dentist, and do the whitening sessions at home. Your dentist will provide lots of instructions to make sure the process runs smoothly;
• Over-the-counter whitening kits: You can also find products online or at your local drug store. However, these are often less potent than professional whitening kits, so your results might not be as visible;
• DIY methods: You can find lots of “natural” ways to brighten your smile. However, many of these methods may prove ineffective or even dangerous at times.

Can Dental Crowns Be Whitened?

The short answer’s no. Dental crowns are usually made from porcelain, ceramics, metals, or a combination of materials that don’t react to the bleaching agent the same way your natural teeth do.

If your dental crown is stained, you might be able to improve its appearance through professional dental cleaning. During these sessions, the dentist uses professional toothpaste and tools that often remove stubborn stains that you can’t fix at home.

Moreover, dental cleanings also remove plaque and tartar build-up, which is why both the crowns and natural teeth may appear whiter after these cleanings.

Can You Get Your Teeth Whitened with Dental Crowns on?

You can still get your teeth whitened as long as you replace your dental crown after your whitening treatment.

Once you reach your desired shade, your dentist can get a new crown made in the new color. Otherwise, you risk having an uneven smile, especially if the crown is placed on the front part of the arch.

Get a Customized Teeth Whitening Plan at JAX Dental Studios

Getting a white smile shouldn’t be hindered by having dental crowns. Dr. Charles Poblenz is here to help you get a brighter, stunning smile with a custom whitening treatment plan that suits your needs to a T.

Schedule a consultation with JAX Dental Studios online, or call us at (904) 396-4091 to find out more.