Teeth whitening is a popular method to enhance the brightness of natural teeth. It typically involves the use of bleaching agents designed to break down stains and discoloration in tooth enamel. While many people experience noticeable improvements in their smile after whitening treatments, the process does not affect all dental materials the same way. Let’s delve into Teeth Whitening Dubai.
Natural Teeth vs. Dental Restorations
Natural teeth and dental restorations like crowns and fillings are made of very different materials. Natural enamel is porous and responds well to whitening treatments. However, restorations such as crowns, fillings, veneers, and bridges are typically crafted from materials like porcelain or composite resin, which do not react to whitening agents.
This means that while whitening can significantly brighten natural teeth, it won’t change the shade of any artificial materials in the mouth. If someone has restorations in visible areas of their smile, uneven coloring may occur after whitening.
Why Crowns and Fillings Don’t Whiten
Crowns and fillings are made to be durable and stain-resistant. Unlike enamel, they are not porous, which means whitening gels and bleaching agents cannot penetrate them to remove stains or change their color.
For example:
Porcelain crowns are glazed and polished to resist discoloration
Composite fillings are color-matched at the time of placement and set into their final shade
These materials maintain their color throughout their lifespan and are not affected by external whitening treatments
What Happens After Whitening?
After whitening, the natural teeth may become several shades lighter, but any crowns or fillings will remain the same shade as before. This difference can become noticeable if restorations are on the front teeth or are highly visible when smiling or talking.
In some cases, people choose to have their old restorations replaced after whitening to better match their new, brighter smile. This can create a more even and harmonious appearance overall.
Are There Any Alternatives for Uniform Whitening?
Since crowns and fillings cannot be whitened with traditional methods, the only way to make them match whitened teeth is to replace them. This replacement is often done after the natural teeth have reached their final shade, allowing new restorations to be color-matched precisely.
Dentists usually recommend waiting a short time after whitening before replacing restorations. This ensures the natural teeth have stabilized in color and makes it easier to match new materials accurately.
How to Maintain a Consistent Smile Tone
For those who already have crowns and fillings, it’s helpful to understand how to maintain a consistent look.
Practice good oral hygiene to keep both natural teeth and restorations looking their best
Avoid foods and drinks that can stain natural teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine
Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup
Schedule regular cleanings to help maintain an even appearance
While whitening won’t affect restorations, maintaining overall oral cleanliness can help keep the entire smile looking healthy and fresh.
FAQs
Can crowns be whitened like natural teeth?
No, crowns are made from materials like porcelain that do not respond to whitening treatments. They will remain the same shade as they were originally created.
Will whitening cause crowns and fillings to look darker?
Whitening doesn’t darken restorations, but it can make them appear darker in contrast to the newly whitened natural teeth surrounding them. This visual difference may be more noticeable in areas like the front teeth.
Is it possible to match crowns to whitened teeth?
Yes, it’s possible to replace crowns and fillings after whitening to match the new tooth color. The replacement is usually done after the whitening process is complete and the shade has stabilized.
Can composite fillings be lightened at all?
Composite fillings, like crowns, do not change color with whitening. They are designed to be color-matched during placement and remain that shade. Replacing them is the only way to achieve a color match after whitening.
How long should one wait to replace restorations after whitening?
Waiting a short period after whitening allows the new tooth shade to stabilize. This helps ensure that any new crowns or fillings can be accurately matched to the final, settled shade of the natural teeth.
Is it safe to whiten if you have crowns or fillings?
Yes, it is generally safe to whiten natural teeth even if you have crowns or fillings. However, it’s important to know the results will only affect natural enamel, not restorative materials.
Final Thoughts
Teeth Whitening in Dubai is a great way to enhance a smile, but it does come with some limitations when dental restorations like crowns and fillings are involved. These materials won’t change color during the process, which can sometimes create a mismatch in tooth shade. Understanding how whitening works with natural teeth and restorations allows individuals to make informed decisions and plan ahead for a more even, confident smile. Regular care, maintenance, and thoughtful timing of restoration replacements can help maintain a bright and balanced look.
