Dental crowns are strong tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged or weak teeth. Many people wonder if they can whiten a crown the same way they whiten their natural teeth. The short answer is no—crowns cannot be whitened as your real teeth can. However, a good dentist in Burnaby can help you plan ahead so your crown matches your smile both now and in the future. If you’re considering dental crowns in Burnaby, it’s important to understand how crowns and whitening work together.
Over time, your natural teeth can get discoloured from stains, aging, and whitening treatments. Dental crowns near you maintain their colour forever. The difference explains why timing is important when you have or are thinking of getting a crown.
How Crowns and Natural Teeth Are Different
Why Crowns Don’t Whiten
Crowns are made from ceramic, porcelain, or metal materials. These materials don’t respond to whitening products the way your natural tooth enamel does. Whitening works by using bleach to remove stains and lighten the colour of real tooth structure. Since crowns are artificial, bleach can’t change their colour.
This means once your crown is made, its colour is permanent. Your dentist chooses the shade when the crown is first created, and that shade stays exactly the same for years. If you have a question, “Will my crown look different after I whiten my natural teeth?” Read this blog further to find out.
Natural Teeth Keep Changing
Your natural teeth can get darker from drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking. They also naturally yellow as you get older. The good news is that whitening treatments can make your natural teeth lighter and brighter.
The problem occurs when you whiten your natural teeth after getting a crown. Your real teeth become lighter, but your crown stays the same colour. This creates a mismatch that looks unnatural. If you want to know, “Should I whiten my teeth before or after getting a crown?” Read this blog till the end.
The Best Approach: Timing Your Crown and Whitening
Whiten First, Then Get Your Crown
The smartest option is to whiten your teeth before getting a crown made. Here’s why this works best:
- Your dentist can see your natural teeth at their brightest shade
- Your crown can be made to match your whitened teeth perfectly
- Your crown will match your smile for years to come
- You avoid having different colored teeth later
This approach prevents the mismatch problem completely. Your dentist will take a shade sample of your whitened teeth and use that colour when creating your crown.
What Happens If You Already Have a Crown
If you already have a crown and want whiter teeth, you have options:
- Whiten your natural teeth around the crown
- Replace the old crown with a new one that matches your newly whitened teeth
- Leave your teeth as they are to keep your crown matching
Many people choose to whiten their natural teeth first, then replace their old crown later when it needs updating anyway.
Will Your Crown Look Different After You Whiten Your Natural Teeth?
Yes, your crown will look different compared to your newly whitened teeth. Here’s what typically happens:
| Situation | What You’ll See | Best Solution |
| Crown made before whitening | Crown stays its original color while natural teeth become whiter | Whiten natural teeth first, or replace the crown later |
| Whiten after crown placement | Noticeable color difference between the crown and natural teeth | Plan whitening before crown placement for future treatment |
| Planned whitening before crown | Crown can be matched to the newly whitened teeth | Provides the most natural-looking result |
| Multiple crowns and whitening | Crowns keep their original shade while natural teeth become whiter | Consider replacing crowns together if a uniform shade is desired |
Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Crowns and Whitening
- Should you whiten your teeth before or after getting a crown? Absolutely whiten first. This simple step saves you money and gives you better results.
- Can a dentist near you adjust a crown’s colour later? No, crowns cannot be adjusted or whitened. The only option is full replacement.
- How long does a crown last? A well-made crown typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Plan your whitening during this timeframe.
- What shade should you choose for your crown? Work with your dentist to pick a shade that matches your whitened teeth, not your current tooth colour.
Planning Ahead for Your Best Smile
At Gilmore Dental, our team understands how important it is for your smile to look natural and beautiful. We take time to discuss your whitening plans and crown colour options before any work begins. Whether you need a new crown or want to explore whitening options, we’re here to help you make the best choices for your smile. Call us today to discuss your dental needs—we’re happy to guide you toward a bright, confident smile that lasts.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Can I whiten my crown with at-home whitening strips?
No, whitening strips only work on natural teeth and won’t change your crown’s colour at all.
If I whiten my teeth, does my crown need to be replaced right away?
Not immediately, but many people choose to replace their crown within a few years when they want a perfect colour match again.
How much does it cost to replace a crown to match whitened teeth?
The cost varies, but it’s similar to getting a new crown. Ask your dentist for pricing and options.
Can my dentist make a crown that adjusts its colour as I age?
No, crowns stay the same colour forever, which is why choosing the right shade initially is so important.
