I’ve had composite bonding on four front teeth since 2002. Last September, one of the teeth chipped. My new dentist of 2 years suggested replacing the composite with crowns for all four teeth to prevent them from chipping again. Unfortunately, I did not know much about crowns, so I agreed to the procedure. I have four ceramic crowns that look gray in pictures. My center front teeth and the ones immediately next to them are the teeth with crowns. And the crowns do not match my other teeth. So my smile is gray and white. I have no trust in my dentist. This episode has made me so nervous about trusting any dentist. My anxiety level is high even with teeth cleaning, so the hygienist gives me nitrous oxide first. I hate to think about what is involved in removing my gray crowns. What are my options? – Thank you. Louis from OK

 

Louis,

We are sorry to hear about your horrible experience with crowns. Although your dentist offered aggressive treatment to correct dental bonding, your only option now is to find a dentist to replace your four crowns.

Replacing New Gray Dental Crowns

If a dentist gives you new dental crowns that are the wrong color, only new crowns will correct the issue. Dental ceramic is colorfast, and the color will not change. But look for an experienced cosmetic dentist to replace your crowns. A dentist who is concerned about aesthetics—the appearance of your smile—will not bond crowns to your teeth unless they fit well and match your natural teeth.

What to expect from your new cosmetic dentist

• Discussion about your crown color – A cosmetic dentist will ensure you like the color of your natural teeth. If you want whiter teeth, the dentist will recommend teeth whitening first. And then, a lab will make your new crowns to match your brighter smile.
• Temporary crowns – You will wear temporary crowns to ensure they look good and feel comfortable. But your final crowns will look even better.
• Try on your new crowns – Your cosmetic dentist should use a clear paste to put your crowns on your teeth so you can see the color, shape, and how they feel. A skilled dentist will do this before bonding or cementing crowns to your teeth.

 

Request a Consultation

Find a few accredited cosmetic dentists in your area. Look at their website smile gallery for cases like yours. And schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist to discuss your options. Also, speak with the dentist about your anxiety and discuss which form of sedation you may need while the dentist completes your crowns.

 

Steven Brooksher, DDS of Baton Rouge, sponsors this post.