How Teeth Whitening Works
Teeth whitening is designed to lighten the natural enamel of your teeth by breaking down stains using bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. While it is highly effective for natural teeth, it does not work in the same way on artificial dental materials, which have a fixed colour that does not change with whitening agents.
Can Teeth Whitening Change the Colour of Crowns?
Dental crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. These materials are non-porous and stain-resistant, meaning they do not respond to bleaching agents in the same way natural teeth do. For this reason, crowns will generally stay the same shade even if the surrounding natural teeth become lighter. Patients considering teeth whitening Lane Cove should be aware that whitening may create a mismatch between their natural teeth and any existing crowns, in which case replacement or adjustment might be needed to maintain a uniform appearance.
Does Whitening Work on Dental Fillings?
Most dental fillings are made from composite resin, which is colour-matched to your teeth at the time of placement. However, like crowns, composite fillings do not change colour with whitening treatments. If your surrounding teeth become lighter after whitening, the fillings may stand out and require replacement to blend seamlessly.
What About Veneers?
Veneers, whether made from porcelain or composite resin, are designed to be stain-resistant and maintain their shade over time. While this is beneficial for longevity, it also means that whitening treatments will not alter their colour. If veneers appear dull or mismatched, professional cleaning, polishing, or replacement may be the best options.
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How to Keep Natural Teeth and Restorations Looking Uniform
To achieve a consistent smile colour, it’s best to discuss your whitening plans with your dentist before beginning treatment. They may suggest whitening first and then replacing older restorations to match your new shade. Regular dental hygiene, professional cleanings, and avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks will also help maintain a balanced look.
Next Steps
Teeth whitening can dramatically improve the appearance of natural teeth, but it won’t change the shade of crowns, fillings, or veneers. For the best results, work with your dentist to plan a whitening and restoration strategy that gives you a bright, even smile.
