I’ve been distressed since getting my six porcelain crowns on my upper front teeth in October. I chose the color BL1, aiming for a truly white smile because my natural teeth have always been white.
However, the crowns don’t seem to match the color I selected. To make matters worse, they’re starting to yellow. Even after drinking coffee or other beverages, I notice a slight staining. I have a consultation scheduled for Monday and hope you can provide some helpful insight into what the dentist might recommend.
The yellowing has made me self-conscious, and I don’t smile as much. Supersmile toothpaste hasn’t made a difference. I feel like I’ve wasted my time and money on the crowns. – Thanks. Warner from IL
Warner,
If your dentist used genuine porcelain, your crowns should not stain or yellow. However, there are a few potential explanations for the issue you’re experiencing.
One possibility is that the crowns were made from a cheaper resin material, which is more prone to staining. Another less likely scenario is that the glaze on the porcelain crowns may have been compromised, perhaps due to a harsh polishing technique or acidic exposure. Acidulated fluoride, for instance, can etch the porcelain’s surface, making it susceptible to staining. Even a powerful toothpaste like Supersmile may be ineffective in this case, as it primarily targets the protein pellicle on natural teeth.
Regarding the color choice, BL1 is an extremely white shade, often used for heavily bleached teeth. While it’s possible to achieve such whiteness, it’s important to consider the overall balance of your smile. A stark contrast between your front teeth and the rest of your dentition might appear unnatural. Working closely with your dentist to select a crown shade that complements your natural teeth and facial features is crucial.
We recommend seeking a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist to diagnose the problem accurately.
your feedback and work with you to achieve the smile you desire.
Lowell, Massachusetts, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Szarek strives to give his patients the best dental care in Lowell.