Do Ceramic Crowns Turn Yellow?
Ceramic crowns are a popular choice for dental restorations for millions of people every year. They closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth and are very durable. However, like natural teeth, ceramic crowns can become stained or discolored over time, especially if they are not cared for properly. Read on to learn more about ceramic crowns changing color.
Why do ceramic crowns change color?
While ceramic crowns do not typically turn yellow in the same way natural teeth do, they can still be affected by certain factors that may cause them to lose their original brightness such as:
- Staining from Food and Drinks: Ceramic crowns are generally resistant to staining, but they can still be affected by substances like coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. These substances contain tannins and pigments that can gradually cause discoloration over time.
- Age and Wear: Over time, the surface of ceramic crowns can experience wear and tear just like natural teeth. As the surface becomes rougher or smoother, it may pick up stains more easily. Additionally, the color of the bonding material used beneath the crown may change over time, which can also affect the overall appearance of the crown.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Like natural teeth, ceramic crowns can become discolored if they are not properly cleaned. Plaque and tartar buildup can accumulate on the crown’s surface, leading to a yellow or discolored appearance. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are essential to prevent this buildup and maintain the crown’s appearance.
- Poor Material Quality: Sometimes a dentist will give the patient the impression that the crown is completely ceramic when it is actually a ceramic composite. This means that the other materials in the crown may be what is turning yellow. It is important to ask for a copy of the lab certificate to ensure the crown is purely ceramic.
- Damaged During Installation: In some cases, the crown may have been damaged during the installation or during a cleaning. If the dentist must perform any grinding when installing the crown, they can sometimes accidently damage the sheen of the crown making it more susceptible to discoloration. Similar, if the right tool is not used during a cleaning, the sheen can become damaged.
How can I prevent the crown from turning yellow?
To prevent your ceramic crowns from becoming discolored, here are a few tips:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup on your crown. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of the crown.
- Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages: Limit how much you eat or drink staining substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can polish your crowns and remove any buildup or stains that may have accumulated over time.
- Consider Whitening Treatments: If your natural teeth become discolored over time, ask your dentist about whitening treatments that can help even out the color between your crowns and natural teeth. In some cases, your dentist may recommend replacing the crown if the color mismatch is significant.