Dental crowns are a popular way to improve the appearance of teeth. They can be used to correct a variety of dental problems, including chips, cracks, and discoloration. But one question that many people have is whether or not dental crowns will stain over time.
In most cases, dental crowns do not stain easily. Dental crowns are made of porcelain, which is a very strong and durable material. Porcelain is also resistant to staining. However, there are a few things you can do to help keep your dental crowns looking their best.
Why Might Crowns Look Darker than Other Teeth?
Dental crowns may look darker than other teeth because they are made of a different material. Crowns are typically made of metal or ceramic, while natural teeth are made of enamel. Enamel is a light-colored material, so dental crowns may look darker in comparison.
Additionally, natural teeth absorb more light than materials like porcelain. The different material of dental crowns are not affected the same by light as natural tooth enamel, making them appear darker.
How to Prevent Dental Crowns from Staining
If you are concerned about your dental crowns staining over time, there are a few things you can do to help prevent this from happening.
- First, make sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly. This will help keep plaque and bacteria from building up on your crowns.
- You should also avoid eating foods that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. If you do eat these foods, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards.
- Finally, see your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. This will help keep your crowns looking their best for years to come.
Can You Whiten Dental Crowns?
Porcelain dental crowns will not whiten the same as your natural teeth. The only way to have your crowns whitened is having them replaced with a whiter shade.
If you have a whitening procedure done to your teeth and a visible crown, your crown may appear to be even darker than before. This is because your natural teeth will whiten with the treatment while the crown will remain the same shade.
How Long do Dental Crowns Last
Dental crowns are a popular option for restoring teeth that are badly damaged or decayed. They are made of porcelain or other materials and fit over the entire tooth, providing a natural-looking restoration. Crowns can last for many years, but eventually they may need to be replaced. The lifespan of a dental crown depends on several factors, including the type of crown and how well it is cared for.
Porcelain crowns are a popular choice because they look very natural. They are also strong and durable, but they can chip or break if they are not treated with care. Porcelain crowns usually last between 5 and 15 years.
Do Dental Crowns Stain and Yellow Over Time?
Dental crowns can last anywhere from five to fifteen years, but they may eventually stain or yellow over time. This is often due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the crown. If the staining or yellowing is severe, you may need to have the crown replaced. Although it is unlikely that you will be able to notice the yellowing or staining of a dental crown, it is possible over several years.
Can Staining Occur Around the Crown?
While dental crowns themselves are resistant to staining, the area around the crown can sometimes become discolored. This happens when plaque or tartar builds up on the gum line or around the base of the crown, which can cause the surrounding tooth or gums to appear darker or stained. This is more common in individuals who do not maintain proper oral hygiene, as the accumulation of plaque can also lead to gum inflammation and recession, which exposes more of the tooth’s root and creates a visible contrast with the crown.
To prevent staining around the crown, it’s important to brush and floss thoroughly and visit your dentist for regular cleanings to remove any plaque buildup.
What Causes Metal Crowns to Darken?
Metal crowns, particularly those made from a combination of metal and porcelain (porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns), may appear darker over time, especially at the gum line. This happens when the metal under the porcelain starts to show through as the gums recede or wear down over the years. The metal can create a grayish tint, making the crown look darker in comparison to the rest of your teeth.
If you have a metal-based crown that is starting to darken, you can talk to your dentist about replacement options. Newer materials, like all-porcelain or zirconia crowns, offer a more natural appearance without the risk of darkening due to metal.
Do Diet and Habits Affect Dental Crowns?
Your dietary and lifestyle habits can impact the appearance of both natural teeth and crowns. Although porcelain crowns are more stain-resistant than natural teeth, consistently consuming staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, can still lead to a gradual buildup of surface stains around the crown. Over time, the crown may start to look slightly duller.
To maintain the brightness of your dental crown, it’s a good idea to limit your intake of staining substances or, if you do indulge, brush your teeth soon afterward. Additionally, regular dental cleanings can help remove surface stains and keep both your crowns and natural teeth looking their best.
Can Aging Cause Dental Crowns to Darken?
As you age, your natural teeth tend to change color, often becoming darker or yellowed due to the thinning of the enamel and the exposure of the underlying dentin. Since crowns don’t age in the same way as natural teeth, the difference between your crowned teeth and natural teeth may become more pronounced over time. While the crown itself doesn’t darken, it can look out of place if your natural teeth have significantly changed color.
If this happens, one option is to whiten your natural teeth (if possible), though this won’t affect the crown itself. Another option is to have your crown replaced to better match the current shade of your teeth.
How to Care for Dental Crowns to Keep Them Looking New
The best way to keep your dental crowns looking their best is by maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine. Here are a few tips to prolong the lifespan and appearance of your dental crowns:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily will help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, especially around the base of the crown. This also helps avoid gum problems that could expose the edges of the crown.
- Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Harsh toothpaste can cause scratches on the surface of the crown, making it more prone to staining. It’s best to use a non-abrasive toothpaste that is gentle on both crowns and natural teeth.
- Avoid Staining Foods: Limiting or avoiding foods and drinks that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, wine, and dark berries, can help maintain the natural color of your crowns.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential to remove any surface stains that could form on or around your crowns. Dentists can also monitor the condition of your crowns and recommend replacement if necessary.
When Should You Replace a Dental Crown?
Although dental crowns are durable, they aren’t meant to last forever. Most crowns will need to be replaced after about 10-15 years, depending on wear and tear. If you notice any of the following, it might be time to discuss replacement with your dentist:
- Significant discoloration or darkening, especially if it makes the crown stand out from your natural teeth.
- Chips, cracks, or other damage to the crown’s surface.
- Gum recession, which can expose the edge of the crown or metal underneath.
Regular dental visits will help your dentist assess when it’s time to replace your crown to ensure both your dental health and appearance are maintained.
Have Your Crowns Replaced at Family Tree Dental
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your dental crowns, Family Tree Dental can help. We have offices in Marietta and Belpre, Ohio and we offer a variety of cosmetic services to improve the appearance of your teeth, including replacing stained crowns. Our experienced dentists will work with you to find the best solution for your needs.
If you are interested in having your crowns replaced, contact Family Tree Dental today. We will be happy to discuss your options with you and help you choose the best course of action for your smile.