Can You Whiten a Crown or Veneers?

A bright, white smile can boost your confidence, but if you have dental crowns or veneers, you might wonder if they can be whitened like natural teeth. Many people seek teeth whitening treatments to remove stains, but the process works differently on dental restorations. Here’s what you need to know about whitening crowns and veneers and how to maintain their brightness.

Can Crowns and Veneers Be Whitened?

Unlike natural teeth, crowns and veneers do not respond to traditional whitening treatments. Professional whitening gels are designed to break down stains on natural enamel, but dental restorations are made from materials like porcelain or composite resin, which do not absorb bleaching agents.

However, at White and Bright, our gel does an internal whitening. This means we can brighten all dental work back to the original colour your dentist made. While we cannot guarantee they will match the rest of your new beautifully bright smile, you’ll be thrilled with your overall brighter appearance! If your existing dental work is not in your smile line, then there’s no need to worry, as they won’t be affected by the whitening process anyway.

Why Do Crowns and Veneers Change Colour?

Although crowns and veneers are stain-resistant, they are not entirely immune to discolouration. Some common reasons include:

• Surface Staining: Over time, coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking can leave surface stains on veneers and crowns.

• Ageing Bonding Material: The composite material used to bond veneers can darken, making the restoration appear discoloured.

• Wear and Tear: Over time, small scratches on the surface can trap stains, leading to a dull appearance.

How to Keep Your Crowns and Veneers Bright

Since traditional whitening treatments don’t work on dental restorations, the best approach is prevention and maintenance:

1. Professional Cleaning

Regular dental cleanings can help remove surface stains and keep your veneers and crowns looking fresh.

2. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks

Cut back on coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-coloured foods, or use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth.

3. Use a Non-Abrasive Whitening Toothpaste

Some whitening toothpastes are too harsh and can scratch porcelain. Instead, choose a non-abrasive toothpaste that gently removes surface stains.

4. Consider Replacing Old or Stained Restorations

If your veneers or crowns have become noticeably discoloured, the best solution is to replace them to match your natural teeth.

Whiten Your Natural Teeth Before Getting Crowns or Veneers

If you're considering getting crowns or veneers, it's best to whiten your natural teeth first. This ensures that your restorations match the brightest shade possible, as they cannot be lightened afterwards.

At White and Bright, we offer safe and effective teeth whitening that can brighten your entire smile, including your dental work, to its original colour. Book a consultation today and let us help you create a radiant smile you’ll love!