Do teeth whitening kits work on crowns? This is a common question among individuals who have dental crowns and are looking to brighten their smiles. While teeth whitening kits are designed to lighten natural teeth, their effectiveness on crowns is a topic of debate. In this article, we will explore whether these kits can work on crowns and the factors that might affect their results.
Teeth whitening kits contain peroxide-based bleaching agents that help to remove stains from natural teeth. However, crowns are made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal, which do not respond to these bleaching agents in the same way. As a result, the effectiveness of teeth whitening kits on crowns is limited.
When it comes to porcelain and ceramic crowns, the surface of these materials is smooth and does not easily absorb the bleaching agents. Therefore, teeth whitening kits may not have a significant impact on the color of these crowns. In some cases, the bleaching agents might even cause damage to the crown’s surface or discolor it further.
On the other hand, metal crowns, such as those made from gold or porcelain fused to metal, are less likely to be affected by teeth whitening kits. However, it is still not recommended to use these kits on metal crowns, as the bleaching agents may cause discoloration or corrosion.
There are a few exceptions where teeth whitening kits might show some level of effectiveness on crowns. For instance, if the crown has a porcelain layer that is relatively thin, the bleaching agents might have a slight impact on the color. However, this is not a guaranteed outcome, and it is still not recommended to use teeth whitening kits on crowns.
Instead of relying on teeth whitening kits, individuals with crowns who wish to improve their smile’s appearance should consider alternative options. These may include consulting with their dentist about professional whitening treatments or considering cosmetic dental procedures such as veneers or bonding.
In conclusion, teeth whitening kits are not effective on crowns, as they are designed to work on natural teeth. It is important for individuals with crowns to be aware of this limitation and seek alternative solutions to achieve a brighter smile.
