laser teeth whitening on crowns
Laser teeth whitening is one of the most popular and advanced cosmetic dentistry procedures available today.
It offers rapid results, minimal discomfort, and improved aesthetics for patients seeking a brighter smile.However, many individuals interested in this treatment already have dental crowns, veneers, or other restorations. This raises an important question: how does laser teeth whitening affect dental crowns, and what should patients with crowns consider before undergoing the procedure?This article explores the science behind laser teeth whitening, explains how it interacts with dental crowns, and outlines what options are available for people who want a uniform, natural-looking smile even with pre-existing restorations. Whether you are considering whitening for the first time or looking to enhance your current dental appearance, understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision.
How Laser Teeth Whitening Works
Laser teeth whitening is a form of in-office bleaching that uses a concentrated whitening gel activated by a dental laser or specialized light. The gel usually contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into oxygen molecules that penetrate the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth. This process lifts and removes stains caused by coffee, tobacco, wine, aging, or certain medications.
The laser accelerates the whitening process by heating the gel and enhancing its ability to break down stain molecules. A typical session lasts between 30 to 90 minutes and can make teeth several shades lighter in a single visit.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or root-canaled tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, resin, and metal. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often chosen for front teeth because they resemble natural enamel in color and texture.
Crowns are custom-made in a dental lab to match the shade of the surrounding teeth at the time they are placed. However, unlike natural enamel, crown materials are non-porous and chemically stable, meaning they do not respond to bleaching agents used in teeth whitening procedures.
Will Laser Whitening Work on Crowns?
The short answer is no. Laser teeth whitening does not affect the color of dental crowns. Since crowns are made of synthetic materials that do not absorb bleaching agents, they remain the same shade as before the procedure. This creates a mismatch if the surrounding natural teeth become noticeably whiter while the crown stays the same.
If the crown is located on a front tooth or in a highly visible area, this contrast may be noticeable and affect the aesthetic outcome. For this reason, dentists often advise whitening the natural teeth first and then placing the crown to ensure a consistent color. If you already have crowns and want a brighter smile, your dentist may recommend replacing the crown after whitening.
Options for Patients with Crowns
If you have dental crowns and are considering laser teeth whitening, here are your primary options:
- Whiten your natural teeth and replace the crown afterward to match the new shade.
- Limit whitening to a conservative level to reduce the visible contrast between teeth and crown.
- Explore polishing or professional cleaning to refresh the crown’s surface without altering its shade.
- Use alternative cosmetic procedures, such as replacing crowns with updated ones in a whiter shade.
Each case is unique, so it is crucial to consult with a dentist who can evaluate your oral condition, goals, and budget to recommend the most appropriate course of action.
Pre-Treatment Assessment
Before undergoing laser teeth whitening, patients with crowns should schedule a comprehensive dental evaluation. This assessment helps determine the location and condition of crowns, the degree of discoloration in natural teeth, and the desired shade after whitening.
Your dentist may also check for cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues that need to be addressed before whitening. Any defective or aging crowns may also be flagged for future replacement to improve both function and appearance.
Benefits of Laser Teeth Whitening
Despite the limitations with crowns, laser teeth whitening offers several advantages for patients with mostly natural teeth:
- Immediate results with minimal sensitivity
- Safe and effective when performed by a licensed professional
- Improved self-confidence and aesthetics
- Non-invasive with no drilling or anesthesia
For individuals without extensive restorations, laser whitening remains one of the fastest and most effective ways to enhance a smile.
Post-Whitening Care and Crown Replacement
After whitening, if a crown does not match the surrounding teeth, your dentist may recommend replacing it. This is typically done two weeks after the whitening procedure to allow the tooth color to stabilize. During this period, patients should avoid heavily pigmented foods and beverages to maintain their new shade.
Crown replacement involves removing the old crown, taking a new impression, and fabricating a crown that matches the new tooth color. This ensures that the final result looks natural and seamless.
Conclusion
Laser teeth whitening is a powerful cosmetic option for brightening smiles, but it does not work on dental crowns. Patients with visible crowns must consider alternative strategies such as crown replacement or customized whitening plans to achieve a balanced and attractive outcome. Consulting with a qualified dental professional is the best way to create a personalized plan that addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns. With the right approach, you can enjoy the benefits of a whiter, healthier smile that complements your dental restorations.