Do Ceramic Crowns Turn Yellow?
One common treatment used in dentistry to repair damaged teeth is a dental crown. The restoration restores the function of a damaged tooth, conceals minor cosmetic issues, and protects the tooth. Over time, crowns can show signs of wear, discoloration, and even turn yellow. Various things that can damage a crown or cause yellowing and discoloration are outlined below.
Discoloration
The materials that are most commonly used for crowns are ceramic and porcelain. There are other types of materials that can be used, such as metals and zirconia, but these materials are often at an increased risk for discoloration. Porcelain and ceramic are highly resistant to stains, making yellowing or discoloration less likely. It is possible for the crown to have stains that cannot be removed through routine oral hygiene at home. Additional common causes for crown staining can include consuming acidic foods, smoking cigarettes, and drinking alcohol.
Teeth Whitening
Following the completion of teeth whitening, the crown may appear to be darker in color. In some cases, the crown may also be yellow in its appearance. The actual color of the crown did not change, but the color of the adjacent teeth is different, which impacts its appearance. In many cases, dental professionals will recommend that patients complete whitening treatment prior to having the crown placed to prevent this issue.
Treatment
Professional cleanings can often remove stubborn stains from the ceramic crown. The dental office has specialized tools that can clean the crown more effectively than routine brushing and flossing. This can help eliminate the stains altogether. These tools also protect the crown from damage. When the crown has yellow staining from normal wear and tear, a professional cleaning can typically help remove this staining.
Damage
When a crown sustains damage, it can sometimes impact the natural tooth below the crown. Crowns that are yellow or discolored may simply be caused by the accumulation of plaque or debris, which was not properly removed.
Adjustments
During the initial placement of the crown, the dental professional often makes adjustments to ensure the crown fits properly in the mouth. There is a potential for the surface of the crown to sustain damage during these adjustments. During these adjustments, the dental professional is also working to achieve the desired size and shape to match the natural teeth. These adjustments can result in damage to the crown’s outer layer. A crown that is not properly glazed during fabrication can also be yellow in color.
Professional Cleaning
In some cases, a professional cleaning may also cause damage to the crown. While this is not common, it is possible. The glaze of the crown can be especially prone to damage. It is also possible for fluoride treatments to damage the crown or result in discoloration.
Crown Materials
The materials used for the crown can also impact the coloring. In cases where materials other than ceramic or porcelain are used, the restoration is often more likely to be discolored over time. Patients should work closely with the dental team to select the material that best meets their unique needs.
Call the office if you are worried about the discoloration or yellowing of your crown. Our team can examine your crown to determine the cause and ensure the crown looks natural in its appearance.