I have a dental crown which can be seen when I smile. It’s started getting darker than usual. I don’t know what happened. I’ve had it for a bit so maybe it’s just wearing out?? I need to get it whitened, but don’t know what procedure to ask for. I thought while I was at it, I’d whiten my teeth too and start with a brand new smile. What do I do for the crown?
Amanda
Dear Amanda,
If this staining started suddenly, it sounds like something recently happened to your crown which removed the glazing from it. Unfortunately, the only solution for a stained crown is to replace it. If you’ve had it for a while, it was probably getting close to the end of its lifespan anyway, so that won’t be as tragic as if it was a fairly new crown.
Teeth whitening only works on natural tooth structure. While we can make a dental crown or bridge any color the patient requests, We don’t yet have a way to whiten dental work which is already completed.
However, this doesn’t have to interfere with your plans to renew your smile through whitening.
Do You Need a Cosmetic or General Dentist for Teeth Whitening?
While there are certain procedures which really require some artistic expertise in cosmetic dentistry, such as porcelain veneers, that’s not the case with teeth whitening. Any general dentist should be able to provide it.
There are generally two main professional teeth whitening options: in-office and at-home. Most dentists offer at-home whitening. But, if you’re wanting to whiten your teeth fast, you’ll want a dentist who offers an in-office option, such as Zoom! Whitening. This allows you to get your teeth whitened in just one appointment.
When it comes to which came first the chicken or the egg, there’s still debate. However, the question of the crown or the whitening is much easier. Do the teeth whitening first. That way, you’ll have all your teeth the color you want and your new porcelain crown can be made to match.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.