My dental crowns are yellow, even though they are ceramic

My dentist did eight ceramic crowns on my upper front teeth. The crowns are turning yellow. I asked for ceramic crowns, not gold. I do not smoke or drink coffee excessively. Before I approach my dentist, what are some reasons my crowns might be turning yellow? Thank you. Stefan form KY

Stefan,

Thank you for your question.

Although Dr. Brooksher would need to examine your crowns to determine why they are yellowing, we can discuss some possibilities.

Why Do New Dental Crowns Turn Yellow?

New dental crowns might turn yellow for several reasons, including they are not ceramic, damage to the surface when adjusting the crowns, and damage to the crowns during a dental cleaning.

• Damage when adjusting the crowns – If your dentist had to grind your crowns to adjust your bite, they might have damaged the glaze. Or the lab that made the crowns may not have glazed them properly.
• Damage during a dental cleaning – If a dental hygienist mistakenly uses power cleaning instruments on your teeth that blast them with sodium bicarbonate, it will damage the glaze. Or, if a hygienist gives you acidulated fluoride treatment, the chemical will etch the glaze and discolor your crowns.
• Your crowns are not ceramic – Sometimes, dentists give patients the impression that they are receiving ceramic or porcelain crowns when the crowns are composite instead. You can ask your dentist for a copy of the lab certificate that lists the materials in your crown.

Get a Second Opinion

In addition to talking to your dentist about your yellowing crowns, we recommend scheduling an appointment with an accredited cosmetic dentist. The cosmetic dentist will examine your crowns and glaze to identify the issue.

You paid your dentist for a new smile and crowns that should last at least five years. Also, porcelain is colorfast, so crowns should not turn yellow. It is appropriate to ask your dentist for a refund.

Accredited cosmetic dentist, Dr. Steven Brooksher of Baton Rouge, sponsors this post.