Can I Opt for Teeth Whitening If I Have Crowns or Fillings?

Thinking about whitening your teeth but worried about your crowns or fillings? You’re not alone! Many people wonder if they can achieve that bright, dazzling smile without compromising their dental work. In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of teeth whitening and whether it’s a viable option if you have crowns or fillings.

Understanding Teeth Whitening

Before diving into how teeth whitening interacts with dental restorations, let’s first understand how it works. Teeth whitening is a procedure that involves applying bleaching agents, usually hydrogen peroxide, to make the color of your teeth light. These agents break down stains and discoloration, leaving you with whiter teeth.

There are two kinds of teeth whitening options:

• Professional Whitening: This treatment is done at dentistry in Portland, where stronger whitening agents are applied under controlled conditions. Professional whitening ensures safety and faster results.
• Over-the-Counter Whitening: These options, such as whitening strips and toothpaste, are available at stores. While they can lighten your teeth, the results tend to be less noticeable and take longer.

The Effect of Whitening on Natural Teeth vs. Crowns and Fillings

When it comes to whitening, natural teeth react quite differently compared to crowns and fillings.

• Natural Teeth: Your teeth are porous, which means they absorb whitening agents. When you apply a whitening gel, it penetrates the enamel to break up stains from the inside out. This is why your teeth lighten after using whitening products.
• Crowns and Fillings: Unlike natural teeth, crowns and fillings are typically made of materials like porcelain, resin, or metal. These materials don’t absorb whitening agents, so the color of your dental work will not change when you whiten your natural teeth.

This is why people with crowns or fillings often notice that their natural teeth become brighter while their dental work stays the same shade.

Can You Whiten Teeth with Crowns or Fillings?

So, the big question is: can you whiten your teeth if you have crowns or fillings? The short answer is no; you cannot whiten crowns or fillings in the same way you whiten your natural teeth. Whitening products do not have an effect on the materials used in dental work.

• Crowns: Whether they are made of porcelain, ceramic, or another material, crowns will maintain their color even after teeth whitening treatments.
• Fillings: Similarly, fillings made of composite resin or amalgam will not change color with whitening treatments.

However, this doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You can still achieve a uniform smile by addressing the discrepancy between your natural teeth and dental restorations.

What to Do if You Have Crowns or Fillings and Want Whiter Teeth

If you’ve had a teeth whitening treatment and are unhappy with the contrast between your whiter teeth and existing crowns or fillings, there are options available to you.

• Veneers: Veneers are thin shells developed from porcelain that can be bonded to the front of your teeth. They can be custom-shaded to match the whiteness of your teeth after whitening, offering a seamless look.
• Replacing Crowns or Fillings: If your crowns or fillings no longer match the shade of your natural teeth, your dentist might recommend replacing them. Modern cosmetic dentistry offers materials that can be color-matched perfectly to your natural teeth.
• Consulting with a Professional: Prior to undergoing any whitening treatment or making changes to your dental work, it’s always a good idea to consult with your dentist near you. They will help you determine the best treatment options dependant on your current dental health and aesthetic goals.

Your dentist in 97214 can also help guide you toward the right whitening options, taking into account the condition of your crowns and fillings.

Potential Risks of Whitening Teeth with Dental Work

While teeth whitening can help you attain a brighter smile, there are some risks, especially when you have crowns or fillings. Here are some potential concerns:

• Uneven Color: As mentioned, whitening only affects natural teeth. This can lead to uneven coloring, with your natural teeth becoming whiter while your crowns and fillings stay the same color.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Some people feel tooth sensitivity after whitening treatments. This can be more pronounced if your teeth whitening in Portland is done aggressively or if your dental work is not properly sealed.
• Gum Irritation: The bleaching agents that are used in whitening treatments can cause gum irritation if not applied correctly. If your gums are sensitive, talk to your dentist before starting any whitening treatment.

To minimize these risks, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions and avoid overusing whitening products. If you have concerns, always reach out to an emergency dentist near you for guidance.

Final Thoughts

Whitening your teeth can amp up your smile, but it doesn’t affect crowns or fillings. For a consistent, brighter look, consult a professional who can help choose the best treatment options. If you’re looking for expert advice, visit Laurelhurst Dentistry for personalized solutions. Trust our dentistry in Portland, OR, for a beautiful, healthy smile!