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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

What’s Causing My New Dental Crowns to Turn Yellow?

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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.

New dental crownsOne 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.

Which Crowns Should I Request for My Front Teeth?

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What brands or types of crowns should I request for front teeth? I’m looking to replace the porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns on my two front teeth. The crowns are bulky and discolored. I have a root canal done on one of them and would like to know the most aesthetic-looking restoration that might have to cover up a dark tooth. I’ve been told that the feldspathic layered porcelain could achieve that, but I’m concerned about the strength of this type of crown. Any light you can shed on this for me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Silas from Mt. Vernon, NY

Silas,

The material used for your crowns is important, but the skill of the dentist and ceramist is even more crucial for natural results. While porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns may not provide the most natural appearance, all-ceramic options like feldspathic porcelain, lithium disilicate, or zirconia can closely mimic the look of natural teeth.

New dental crownsYour dentist or ceramist may use various techniques to mask the discoloration of your root-canaled tooth. One approach involves building the tooth with composite material before placing the crown. Another option is to incorporate an opaque layer within the crown.

Many dentists succeed with e.max crowns, which combine lithium disilicate strength with feldspathic porcelain’s aesthetic appeal.

A successful restoration lies in the hands of a skilled dentist and ceramist who can expertly match the color and shape of your crowns to your existing teeth.

Rather than requesting a crown type, material, or brand, it’s best to trust a skilled cosmetic dentist’s expertise. Allowing them to select the materials and techniques they are most comfortable with maximizes the chances of achieving a beautiful, long-lasting result.

 

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.

My Temp Veneers for Front Teeth Have Humps at the Top

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I’m currently in the process of getting porcelain veneers replaced for my two center front teeth. It’s been a challenge for me and my dentist. I originally had bonding on these teeth, which my dentist replaced with veneers. Unfortunately, those veneers felt too bulky, making it difficult to close my mouth comfortably.

My new dentist tried bonding again, but the results looked amateurish. She suggested a new set of porcelain veneers to create a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing smile. She’s already prepped my teeth for the new veneers.

My question is, do all veneers for front teeth have a noticeable hump at the top? Most veneers have this, but I’ve noticed a smoother transition with Durathins. Right now, I’m wearing temporaries, and while they look okay, they still have that unwanted hump. I’m concerned and don’t want to move forward. – Thanks Meghan from RI

Meghan,

We understand your concerns.

It sounds like you’re having a frustrating experience with your dental veneers. It’s completely understandable to want a natural-looking, comfortable smile. A well-placed veneer should seamlessly blend with natural teeth without unsightly humps or irregularities.

A skilled cosmetic dentist should be able to create a beautiful, functional smile without compromising aesthetics. If your current dentist doesn’t meet your expectations, consider a second opinion from an experienced cosmetic dentist.

Porcelain veneers after photo of a woman's smile that was restored by Lowell, MA accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Szarek.

Smooth, well-formed porcelain veneers from Dr. Szarek and his ceramist

Before committing to the final veneers, your dentist must schedule a try-in appointment so you can see how they will look and feel. Skilled cosmetic dentists adjust the veneers until you are delighted with the result.

Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns and expectations to your dentist. A good dentist will listen to 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.

Is a Screw Post a Lasting Solution for a Tooth Broken at the Gumline?

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My left central incisor broke at the gumline after getting a root canal treatment. My dentist put a metal screw post in the socket and attached a temporary crown. I feel pressure in my nasal cavity, but there is no pain. Is the screw a lasting solution if I cannot afford a dental bridge? – Thanks. Finn from Seattle

Finn,

While screw posts are generally secure, they can exert pressure on the root, potentially leading to fractures. You may be experiencing a dull feeling in your nasal cavity due to root stress. However, waiting and monitoring the situation can help determine if discomfort worsens.

A front tooth that has broken off at the gumline has many challenges. Many dentists consider such teeth unrestorable due to the rotational forces that can loosen crowns or posts over time.

What Are Treatment Options for a Tooth That Breaks at the Gumline?

Given the potential risks and challenges, a new crown on a post may be the healthiest option for a tooth that breaks at the gumline. While there’s a risk of failure, it’s worth considering as a temporary solution. After an exam and X-ray, your dentist can explain your options. If the tooth is unsavable, your dentist will recommend replacing it with a dental implant.

A flipper partial denture is more affordable if a bridge or crown is not feasible due to cost.

Placing a simple post in the tooth after the root canal treatment could have helped prevent the fracture. However, focus on the current situation and explore the available treatment options.

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.

Why Are New Dental Crowns Burning My Gums?

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New dental crownsMy dentist removed six temporary crowns from my teeth after I complained about discomfort. I had an infection, so my dentist removed the crowns and prescribed antibiotics. He didn’t do root canals on any of the teeth. My bite was off when I got my new crowns, so my dentist filed away on all the crowns. The new crowns leaked like the temporaries, so my dentist returned them to the lab. I should have new crowns within ten days. My gums are burning, and my teeth are sensitive from the previous crowns. I want to cancel the crowns. Thanks. Lydia

Lydia,

Please don’t let your dentist permanently cement the new crowns until you feel comfortable with them and your bite is harmonious.

Why Are Dental Crowns Burning Your Gums?

Dental crowns should not cause your gums to burn. If your crowns are porcelain fused to metal, you may have a metal allergy or sensitivity. Tell your dentist about your burning gums and ask if the crowns contain metal. If they do, your dentist can give you an alloy certificate from the dental lab to identify the metals in the crowns. If your crowns are all ceramic, your dentist will investigate further to determine the cause of your symptoms.

What If Your Dentist Can’t Adjust Your Bite After Placing New Crowns?

If your dentist can’t adjust your bite after placing new crowns, you can benefit from the skills and experience of a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training. Placing six crowns on the front teeth is a complex treatment. Ongoing problems with your bite suggest that your dentist may not know how to harmonize your bite.

You can ask your dentist to temporarily cement the new crowns and find an advanced cosmetic dentist for an exam. You can tell the dentist that you want to ensure your crowns are comfortable before they are cemented. The dentist can discern whether preparing your natural teeth for the crowns or the crowns’ construction is disrupting your bite.

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.