When you think about brightening up your smile, one of the first things that might come to mind is teeth whitening. Lexington, with its vibrant community and events, is a place where many of us like to put our best smile forward. But what happens if you have dental crowns, fillings, or other restorations? Can they be whitened just like natural teeth? Let's dive into this important question, shall we?
Natural Teeth vs. Dental Restorations
Our natural teeth are susceptible to staining from various foods, drinks, and lifestyle choices. Over time, they may become discolored, leading many to seek teeth whitening in Lexington and other areas. The outermost layer of our teeth, known as enamel, is porous, allowing whitening agents to penetrate and break down stains.
On the other hand, dental restorations like crowns and fillings are made from different materials that don't respond to whitening in the same way as natural enamel. These materials, often porcelain or composite resin, are created to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. However, they're non-porous and resistant to discoloration – which is a good thing in terms of longevity but presents challenges when considering teeth whitening.
What Happens When You Try to Whiten Restorations?
If you're considering teeth whitening in Lexington, especially at renowned practices like Palmetto Dental Associates, it's essential to know how the process impacts your crowns and fillings.
The short answer? Traditional whitening treatments won't change the color of dental restorations. So, if you undergo a teeth-whitening procedure, your natural teeth might become several shades lighter, but your crowns, fillings, or veneers will remain the same color. This might result in a mismatched appearance, with your natural teeth appearing whiter than your restorations.
So, What Can Be Done?
If you have older restorations that have discolored over time (yes, while they're resistant, they're not entirely immune to some external staining), you might consider replacing them after whitening your natural teeth. This way, your dentist can match the new restorations to the newly whitened shade of your teeth. It's a step that ensures uniformity in color and a radiant smile.
Alternatively, for those looking into teeth whitening in Lexington and have several visible restorations, it might be a good idea to discuss with your dentist first. Dr. Thomas & Dr. Shull at Palmetto Dental Associates have helped countless patients navigate this scenario. They can provide expert advice on achieving a uniform, bright smile that takes into account both your natural teeth and any dental work you've had done.
In Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a fantastic way to rejuvenate your smile and boost your confidence. But if you have crowns, fillings, or veneers, it's crucial to approach the process with the understanding that these restorations won't whiten in tandem with your natural teeth. With the expertise of seasoned dental professionals, like those at Palmetto Dental Associates, you can find the best way forward to achieve that gleaming smile you desire.
Get In Touch!
If you're in the Lexington, South Carolina area, including Irmo and Columbia, SC, and you're thinking about teeth whitening, don't hesitate to reach out to the experts. Dr. Thomas & Dr. Shull are always here to help, answer questions, and guide you on your journey to a brighter smile.
For consultations and more, contact Palmetto Dental Associates at (803) 808-0888. Your radiant smile awaits!