Having white and bright dental crowns is not only aesthetically pleasing but also indicates good oral health. Over time, dental crowns may become discolored or stained due to various factors, including food and drink consumption, smoking, and certain medications. If you want to restore the original brightness of your dental crowns, here are ten effective ways to make them whiter.
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
One of the simplest and most important steps to keep dental crowns whiter is to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing once a day is also essential to remove plaque and debris between crowns. Additionally, rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacterial growth.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are crucial, as your dentist can identify any issues and provide appropriate treatment. Professional cleaning removes stubborn stains and plaque buildup that cannot be removed through brushing alone.
2. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and drinks can cause discoloration of dental crowns. To maintain their whiteness, limit the consumption of highly pigmented foods such as berries, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Additionally, avoid or minimize the intake of drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and cola, as they can stain crowns over time. If you do indulge in these beverages, use a straw to minimize contact with your dental crowns.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major contributor to dental discoloration and can significantly impact the brightness of dental crowns. The tobacco in cigarettes contains chemicals that yellow the teeth and cause staining. Quitting smoking not only improves your oral health but also helps maintain the whiteness of dental crowns. Seek professional help or use nicotine replacement therapy if needed.
4. Brush with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener and is effective in removing surface stains from dental crowns. You can either mix a small amount of baking soda with your toothpaste or create a paste using baking soda and water. Gently brush your dental crowns with this paste for a couple of minutes, then rinse thoroughly. However, avoid excessive use of baking soda as it can be abrasive and damage the crowns.
5. Try Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives and chemical agents that help remove stains from teeth, including dental crowns. Regularly brushing with whitening toothpaste can gradually improve the brightness of your crowns. However, keep in mind that the effectiveness of whitening toothpaste may vary depending on the type and severity of stains.
6. Home Whitening Kits
There are various home whitening kits available in the market that can be used to whiten dental crowns. These kits usually include whitening gels or strips to be applied directly to the teeth. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the kit carefully to avoid any damage to the crowns or sensitivity issues. Home whitening kits can provide noticeable results but may take longer to achieve the desired level of whiteness.
7. Professional Teeth Whitening
If you are looking for faster and more significant results, professional teeth whitening treatments by a dentist are highly recommended. During an in-office teeth whitening session, a strong bleaching agent is applied to dental crowns, and in some cases, a specialized light or laser is used to enhance the whitening process. Professional teeth whitening can significantly improve the whiteness of dental crowns in just one or two sessions.
The average price of professional teeth whitening treatments varies depending on your location and the dental clinic. On average, the cost can range from $500 to $1,500.
8. Porcelain Veneers or Replacement
If your dental crowns are severely discolored and other whitening methods do not provide satisfactory results, you may consider porcelain veneers or replacement. Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are custom-made and bonded to the front surface of the crowns, effectively covering the discoloration. However, this is a more costly option, with an average price ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 per tooth.
If veneers are not suitable or within your budget, replacing the dental crowns with new ones can also provide a whiter appearance.
9. Maintain a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables promotes overall oral health, including the whiteness of dental crowns. Crunchy foods like apples and celery can help clean teeth and remove surface stains. Additionally, foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, can strengthen teeth and maintain their brightness. Remember to consume foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals for optimal oral health.
10. Consult with a Dentist
If you have concerns about the whiteness of your dental crowns or need specific recommendations for your individual case, it is always advisable to consult with a dentist. They can assess your oral health, identify the cause of discoloration, and suggest the most appropriate treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use hydrogen peroxide to whiten dental crowns at home?
While hydrogen peroxide may have some whitening effects, it is not recommended to use it on dental crowns without professional guidance. Improper use can cause damage to the crowns or irritate the gums. Consult with your dentist before attempting any at-home whitening methods.
2. How long does the whitening effect last?
The longevity of the whitening effect varies depending on individual habits and oral hygiene practices. With proper care and regular dental cleanings, the whiteness of dental crowns can last for several years.
3. Can I whiten dental crowns that are made from metal?
Metal dental crowns cannot be whitened using conventional whitening methods. If they become discolored, replacement may be the only viable option. Consult with your dentist for specific advice regarding metal crowns.
