Do Ceramic Crowns Turn Yellow?
Ceramic crowns are one of the most common choices for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, and for good reason. They blend in beautifully with your natural teeth, resist most types of stains, and are strong enough to last for years. But many people wonder if ceramic crowns turn yellow over time. The short answer is yes, although it doesn't usually happen the same way it does with natural teeth. If you are considering ceramic crowns, read on to learn more about what you can expect from them over time.
What Causes Yellowing in Crowns?
Ceramic crowns don’t have pores like natural enamel, which means they’re generally more stain resistant. They’re not completely immune to discoloration, however. Over time, a few things can affect their appearance.
- Foods and Drinks: Regular exposure to coffee, tea, wine, curry, and other highly pigmented substances can gradually affect the outer surface of the crown. While it won’t soak up stains as quickly as a natural tooth, the surface can still lose some of its original brightness.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause surface staining that dulls the crown’s sheen and gives it a yellowed or brownish look.
- Surface Wear: As ceramic ages, the glaze that helps protect it can wear down slightly. This rougher texture can make it easier for plaque or stains to cling to the crown, especially if brushing habits are inconsistent.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque and tartar can build up on crowns just as they do on natural teeth. This buildup can create a yellow tint that may not go away with regular brushing. If left untreated, the crown could appear dull or discolored over time.
- Material Quality: Not all ceramic crowns are created equal. Some crowns are labeled as ceramic but contain other materials that may discolor faster. Asking your dentist for a certificate from the lab can help you confirm that the crown is made from high-quality ceramic.
What Can Make It Worse
In some cases, the discoloration isn’t on the surface of the crown but underneath it. The cement or bonding material used to hold the crown in place can darken over time. If this happens, the color can show through the crown, especially if the ceramic is thin or translucent.
Damage during installation or cleaning can also make a difference. If the surface of the crown is accidentally scratched or polished with the wrong tool, it can lose its protective finish and be more prone to staining.
How to Keep Your Crown Bright
There are a few easy steps you can take to keep your ceramic crown looking its best:
- Brush and floss daily to reduce plaque buildup.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Rinse your mouth with water after drinking coffee, wine, or other staining beverages.
- Avoid tobacco.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.
If a ceramic crown becomes significantly discolored and polishing doesn’t help, your dentist may recommend replacing it. But with the right care, most ceramic crowns will keep their natural look for many years.