There are quite a many people asking professionals whether teeth can be whitened when they have dental works like fillings or crowns. As they want to have a brighter smile and whiter teeth. This question is particularly important to consider, especially in the field of cosmetic dentistry in North Toronto!
What Are Fillings and Crowns?
Before we discuss whitening, it’s important to understand fillings and crowns.
- Fillings: Fillings are used to reconstruct teeth that have cavities or damage. The dentist removes part of the decayed tooth and fills it with materials such as composite resin, tooth-coloured, amalgam silver, or other materials.
- Crowns: Crowns are caps placed over a tooth to protect it. It is placed over a tooth to protect it. It is recommended by the dentist when a tooth is too damaged or too big-filled. A crown may comprise different materials like porcelain, metal, or a mix of both.
Can You Whiten Teeth with Fillings or Crowns?
The answer is a bit complex! Here’s what you need to know:
- Natural Teeth vs. Dental Work: Whitening products work on natural teeth. It means that if you use a whitening toothpaste, or strips, or undergo professional treatment, they are made for whitening your natural teeth but will not whiten fillings and crowns are made from materials that do not change colour in the same way as natural teeth. Thus, they can still have the same shade despite whitening treatments.
- How Fillings Respond to Whitening: If whitening treatment has made your natural teeth whiter, you will find that your fillings appear darker because they have not changed colour. That lack of change creates an uneven appearance. If the filling is new, it may stand out more if one whitens their natural teeth.
- How Crowns Respond to Whitening: Similar to fillings, crowns do not change colour with whitening treatments. If you have a porcelain crown, it will stay the same colour no matter how much you whiten your teeth. If you notice that your natural teeth are much whiter than your crown, you may think about replacing the crown to match the new colour.
- How Fillings Respond to Whitening: If your natural teeth become whiter after whitening treatment, your fillings might look darker because they haven’t changed colour. This can make your teeth look uneven. If your filling is old and stained, it might be more noticeable after you whiten your natural teeth.
- How Crowns Respond to Whitening: Similar to fillings, crowns do not change colour with whitening treatments. If you have a porcelain crown, it will stay the same colour no matter how much you whiten your teeth. If you notice that your natural teeth are much whiter than your crown, you may think about replacing the crown to match the new colour.
Before You Decide to Whiten
If you want to whiten your teeth, here are some things to consider:
- Talk to Your Dentist: Always speak with your dentist near you before trying to whiten your teeth. They can check your fillings and crowns, ensure they are in good condition, and give you advice about the best whitening method for you.
- Assess Your Dental Work: If you have old fillings or crowns, they may need to be replaced. If they are still in good shape, you may want to consider how a whitening treatment will affect their colour compared to your natural teeth.
- Choose the Right Whitening Method: There are many ways to whiten teeth, including:
- Over-the-counter products, like whitening toothpaste and strips.
- Professional whitening treatments from the dentist.
- At-home whitening kits that your dentist provides.
Alternative Options for Whitening
If you have fillings and crowns and are worried about appearance, consider these options:
- Veneers: Veneers are thin shells placed over your teeth. They can help cover stains and improve your smile without affecting your dental work.
- Replacement of Dental Work: If your fillings or crowns are old and don’t match your natural teeth, your dentist can replace them with newer materials that may match better with your newly whitened teeth.
- Consider a Full Mouth Restoration: In some cases, people choose to change the appearance of all their teeth. Your dentist can help with a plan that ensures everything matches.
In summary, you can whiten your teeth if you have fillings or crowns, but it’s important to think about how these dental restorations will respond. The whitening products will work on your natural teeth, but your fillings and crowns may not change colour and could make your teeth look uneven. Always talk to your dentist before deciding on any teeth whitening in North Toronto treatment, so they can guide you toward the best option for your smile.
Brighten Your Smile with Expert Care!
At Bayview Dental Centre, we believe everyone deserves a bright and healthy smile. Our dentist at the dental clinic in North Toronto is dedicated to providing quality dental care in a comfortable environment. Whether you need a routine check-up, teeth whitening, or more extensive treatments, we are here to help you every step of the way.
Ready to brighten your smile? Schedule an appointment with us today!