Understanding Dental Crowns and their Whiteness
Dental crowns are essentially tooth-shaped caps that are placed onto a tooth to protect it from further damage or decay. While crowns are primarily used for functional purposes, they can also serve aesthetic purposes as they improve the appearance of teeth. However, some people may find that their dental crowns don’t match the color of their natural teeth, which can be frustrating. This is why certain individuals might wonder if they can whiten their dental crowns at home.
Before diving into the ways to whiten dental crowns, it is essential to understand the types of dental crowns. The most common types of crowns are made of porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular because they bear a resemblance to natural teeth, and their color can be altered to blend in successfully with a person’s natural pearly whites. On the other hand, zirconia crowns tend to appear more opaque and appear whiter than natural teeth.
Another critical aspect of understanding dental crowns’ whiteness is to comprehend that dental restorations are made to last for years. Crowns may show some signs of discoloration over time, but the color change is usually due to the dental cement holding the crown in place instead of the crown material.
Additionally, the crown’s color itself can change if it is exposed to certain staining agents. For instance, smoking, drinking coffee, and eating dark-colored foods, such as spaghetti sauce, can cause dental crowns to become discolored quicker than natural teeth. This is because the crown’s outer layer is more porous than natural teeth, which makes it easier for surface stains to penetrate it.
While there are some do-it-yourself (DIY) options to whiten teeth in general, these remedies do not necessarily work on dental crowns. One common DIY method involves using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Although this method could show some improvement in natural teeth’s coloration, it won’t work on dental crowns. Dental crowns and filling material do not respond to this type of treatment.
If a person is unhappy with the color of their dental crowns, the best course of action is to consult with a dentist. The dentist can either recommend professional teeth whitening or suggest replacing the dental crowns with a lighter shade.
Professional teeth whitening involves using bleaching agents that remove surface stains from the tooth’s enamel, but not the crown. In-office teeth whitening treatment lasts about an hour and provides an immediate improvement in the teeth’s appearance. A professional dentist can determine a suitable whitening material that blends with the shade of the crown to offer a uniform look.
Alternatively, the dentist may recommend replacement of the dental crown to alter its shade to match that of the natural teeth. The dentist would need to assess the crown’s condition to determine whether it needs replacement. A new crown made of porcelain or ceramic that’s lighter in color can result in the desired aesthetic outcome.
In summary, dental crowns are useful tools that protect teeth from damage and decay while improving their overall look. Understanding the types of dental crowns and their susceptibility to staining can help individuals anticipate possible changes in their appearance over time. Although DIY whitening remedies for teeth may work, they are not always effective on dental crowns. Consulting with a dentist about professional teeth whitening or replacing the dental crown is the most reliable solution for achieving a change in the crown’s appearance.
Choose the Right Products for Whitening Crowns
Whitening crowns might initially seem like a daunting task, but with the right products and methods, this can be done easily at home. When choosing products to whiten your crowns, it’s important to look for the right type of ingredients. Some ingredients might be too abrasive for your crowns. Here are a few tips on selecting the right products for whitening your dental crowns:
Peroxide Concentration
The most common ingredient in teeth whitening products is hydrogen peroxide. However, not all hydrogen peroxide concentrations are the same. Those with higher concentrations will whiten teeth faster but could pose a danger to your enamel. Crowns are especially at risk since they can damage the resin. Therefore, it’s best to look for a whitening product with a lower concentration level of around 10-22% carbamide peroxide.
Fluoride Content
While peroxide is important, fluoride is equally important in any teeth whitening product you use. By strengthening your enamel, fluoride protects it from damage during the whitening process. It most often comes in the form of sodium fluoride or amorphous calcium phosphate. A good toothpaste that meets your fluoride and whitening needs is a great option. You want to check the product and make sure it contains fluoride and meets the right concentration level.
No Acidic Ingredients
Some OTC teeth whitening products contain acidic agents such as lemon juice or vinegar. Although they are popular because of their low cost, it is best to avoid them. Crowns, veneers, and other dental restorations with composite materials will be damaged by acid used in whitening methods. Acidic substances can soften, break, and harm the surface of crowns and lead to staining and discoloration. Consider avoiding highly acidic food and drinks such as citrus, coffee, and red wine which can also stain and darken the crowns.
Mild Abrasives
When removing plaque and extrinsic dental stains from teeth, mild abrasives are commonly used. However, abrasives that are too harsh may scratch your crowns and could damage the surface. Seek mild abrasives such as baking soda, charcoal, or finely ground pumice to clean your teeth. They are perfect for removing stains and getting rid of surface debris in the teeth without causing harm to your dental restorations.
Safety Standards
Whatever product you choose, make sure it has been tested and approved by dental professionals. This will ensure that the product is safe for your crowns and will give you the desired whitening results. Avoid using unregulated whitening kits or products online. Reach out to a dentist or check online reviews before purchasing any product to see if the users were satisfied with the product or met some of the ADA guidelines for safety.
Overall, there are a variety of products that can be used to whiten your teeth at home with your crowns included. However, It is crucial to use the right products for the job. Use products with milder abrasives, low peroxide concentrations, fluoride, and without acidic ingredients. If you want the right products to be selected, it is wise to check with dental professionals or seek feedback and reviews online to get the desired results.
Preparing your Teeth for Crown Whitening
If you’re considering whitening your dental crowns, it’s important to note that the process may differ from traditional teeth whitening methods. This is because dental crowns are not made from the same porous material as natural teeth, and are therefore less receptive to traditional teeth whitening treatments. However, there are a few DIY methods you can try to help brighten your crowns and improve your overall smile.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
The first and most crucial step to any dental hygiene routine is to keep your teeth clean. This means brushing twice a day and flossing regularly to remove any buildup of plaque or bacteria that may be dulling your crown’s shine. Be sure to use a gentle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the surface of your crown.
2. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
While it may be tempting to indulge in highly pigmented foods and drinks, doing so can lead to discoloration of your teeth and dental crowns. This includes beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine, as well as foods like berries, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. If you’re unable to avoid these types of food and drink, try using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth and crowns, or rinse your mouth with water immediately after consumption.
3. Try Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing a small amount of oil, typically coconut or sesame, in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. The oil is believed to draw out toxins and bacteria from your mouth, leaving your teeth and crowns looking brighter. To try oil pulling, simply take a tablespoon of oil and swish it around your mouth, being careful not to swallow any. Spit the oil out into a trash can and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
While there is little scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of oil pulling, many people swear by it as a natural teeth whitening remedy. Just be sure to use caution and not swallow any of the oil, as it can be harmful if ingested.
4. Use Whitening Toothpaste
While traditional teeth whitening treatments may not be effective on dental crowns, using a whitening toothpaste may help to brighten your natural teeth and improve the overall appearance of your smile. Look for a toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide or baking soda, as these ingredients are known to be effective in removing surface stains. Just be sure to avoid using abrasive toothpaste on your dental crowns, as it can scratch the surface of the crown and cause damage.
5. Try Over-The-Counter Whitening Products
If at-home remedies aren’t enough to achieve the desired results, there are a variety of over-the-counter whitening products that may be effective on dental crowns. These include whitening strips, gels, and mouthwashes, all of which are designed to remove surface stains and improve the overall whiteness of your teeth. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when using these products, and avoid using them on your dental crowns unless the packaging specifically states they are safe to use on dental work.
Overall, whitening dental crowns may require a slightly different approach than traditional teeth whitening methods. By keeping your natural teeth clean and healthy, avoiding staining food and drink, and trying natural remedies like oil pulling, you can help brighten your smile and improve the overall appearance of your dental crowns.
Step-by-Step Instructions for DIY Crown Whitening
Having white teeth and an appealing smile are crucial for everyone. Nowadays, there are numerous whitening procedures available in the market, including teeth whitening strips, in-office treatments, and much more. Unfortunately, these treatments are not suitable for those who have dental crowns. This fact leads many people to believe that their dental crowns can never become white again. Contrary to this belief, there are several ways to whiten dental crowns at home without requiring a visit to the dentist’s office. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to whiten your crowns at home.
1. Brush Regularly and Floss Daily:
One essential step to whiten your dental crowns is to maintain good oral hygiene. No teeth whitening procedure will work if you are not using proper brushing and flossing techniques. Brushing twice a day and flossing every day help remove plaque and tartar, which can cause discoloration of the crowns.
2. Use Baking Soda:
The most effective way to clean and whiten dental crowns at home is by using baking soda. This kitchen staple not only removes surface stains but also helps maintain the overall oral health. Use a quarter of a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste on your teeth, and gently brush for 2-3 minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and repeat every other day.
3. Try Hydrogen Peroxide:
Hydrogen peroxide is another popular ingredient that can be used to whiten dental crowns at home. It bleaches out the stains and discolorations, giving you a brighter smile. Use a 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide and mix it with water in equal amounts. Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds and then spit it out. Repeat every other day for best results.
4. Use Activated Charcoal:
Activated charcoal is another natural remedy that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a highly absorbent material that can effectively remove surface stains from teeth and dental crowns. This method is simple and requires only a single ingredient – activated charcoal. Mix a small amount of activated charcoal powder with water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste on your teeth, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and repeat this process every other week.
It is essential to use activated charcoal only once a week or fortnight as it can harm tooth enamel. Activated charcoal may also cause temporary staining of gums, which can be fixed by brushing the gums thoroughly and rinsing your mouth with water.
Conclusion:
Whitening dental crowns is now easier than ever before with the help of these simple DIY methods. However, it is important to consult your dentist before trying any of these methods, especially if you have sensitive teeth or any other dental issues. In conclusion, maintaining good oral hygiene, using baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and activated charcoal can all help whiten dental crowns at home without having to visit a dentist’s office.
Maintaining the Whiteness of your Crowns
Having dental crowns is an investment that can significantly improve your overall dental health, function, and aesthetics. However, just like natural teeth, crowns can become dull, stained, or discolored over time. The good news is that there are ways to maintain the whiteness of your crowns without having to spend a lot of money or time.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your dental crowns white is by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day. This helps remove food particles and plaque that can accumulate around your crowns and cause stains and discoloration. Be gentle when brushing and flossing around your crowns to avoid damaging or dislodging them.
2. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Sometimes, the things we eat and drink can cause stains and discoloration on our teeth and dental crowns. Avoid consuming these items or rinse your mouth with water after consuming them:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soda
- Red wine
- Dark berries
- Soy sauce
- Balsamic vinegar
- Curry
If you do consume these items, limit your exposure or rinse with water soon after to minimize the risk of stains and discoloration.
3. Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking and tobacco use can cause yellowing and staining of the teeth and dental crowns. Smoking also contributes to gum disease, which can cause your crowns to loosen or fall out over time. If you smoke or use tobacco, quitting can improve the whiteness and overall health of your crowns and natural teeth.
4. Use a Whitening Toothpaste
Using a whitening toothpaste daily can help maintain the whiteness of your dental crowns and natural teeth. Some toothpaste options contain hydrogen peroxide, which can help remove surface stains and whiten your teeth. However, be careful not to overuse whitening toothpaste or you risk damaging the porcelain surface of your crowns.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings and Check-Ups
Scheduling regular dental cleanings and check-ups with your dentist is an essential part of maintaining the whiteness and overall health of your dental crowns. During your appointment, your dentist or dental hygienist will clean and polish your crowns to remove any surface stains or bacteria. They will also check the fit and health of your crowns, which can help prevent future issues.
Overall, keeping your dental crowns white and healthy is a simple process that requires dedication and care. By practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding staining foods and drinks, quitting smoking and tobacco use, using a whitening toothpaste, and scheduling regular dental cleanings and check-ups, you can maintain the beauty and durability of your dental crowns for years to come.