My Dental Implant Crown Color Doesn’t Match My Teeth

Posted on by .

My dentist tried three times to get the color right for my implant crown, but she can’t seem to do it. After the last try, she said I should be pleased with the improvement, but she admitted that the shade was darker than my natural teeth. My dental flipper looked better than the implant crown. My teeth were whitened first, and my dentist said that complicated the color match. Is it common to have these problems with an implant? Would it hurt the implant if another dentist grinds off the crown? – Thanks for your help. Rhylan from NJ

Rhylan,

A skilled restorative implant dentist can grind off the implant crown without damaging the implant. It takes kill and patience to match a dental crown to surrounding teeth. If you have an implant crown or a traditional crown on a front tooth, it is common for a few tries to achieve a perfect match.

Trained cosmetic dentists collaborate with dental ceramists to create a color map for the crown, ensuring it matches the natural tooth. This collaborative approach helps to resolve any color discrepancies. Using digital and physical photos further aids in comparing the dental crown to the natural tooth, instilling confidence in the process.

An artistic restoring dentist takes great care in the color-matching process. They won’t cement the crown without your approval until a perfect match is achieved, ensuring you are completely satisfied with the result.

We recommend consulting an advancing cosmetic dentist who understands tooth shade, tint, and translucence. Cosmetic dentists work with master ceramists to achieve natural-looking results. Your implant crown will blend with the surrounding teeth.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and an accredited cosmetic dentist.

My Dental Implant Crown Is Still the Wrong Color

Posted on by .

My dentist can’t get my implant crown color right. She corrected it twice but bonded it on before assuring a color match. Before I switch dentists, how can I get a refund? Thanks. Milan from IL

 

Milan,

Before switching dentists, search for dedicated cosmetic dentists who prioritize aesthetics and patient satisfaction.  They will ensure your implant crown seamlessly blends with your natural teeth.

How to Achieve the Correct Dental Crown Color

Skilled cosmetic dentists use a series of steps to color match a dental crown, including:

  • High-quality smile photography: They capture detailed photos of your smile, highlighting the desired color and characteristics.
  • Advanced shade matching: Utilizing a shade guide alongside your photos, they communicate precise color information to the dental ceramist.
  • Clear communication: They send the ceramist detailed notes regarding color and crown fabrication, minimizing any room for error.
  • Ask for your feedback: A dental ceramist will make your final crown only after you approve the temporary one. Also, a conscientious dentist will attach the implant crown only with your consent.
Model of a dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form labeled

A dental implant mimics a natural tooth and does not need support from other teeth

Unfortunately, your situation likely requires a new crown. A skilled cosmetic dentist understands how to safely remove the existing crown without compromising your implant.

Who Should Pay for Your New Crown?

You entrusted your dentist with achieving a specific outcome – a well-fitting, color-matched implant crown.  Here’s how to approach your dentist professionally:

  • Seeking a Solution: Kindly request a refund from your dentist. Explain that you didn’t get what was promised—a crown that matches your surrounding teeth and fits well.
  • Gathering Evidence: If your dentist is unwilling to cooperate, get a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist. This consultation report will document any additional work needed for a successful outcome.
  • Mediation: Inform your former dentist that you intend to report the issue to the state dental board if a resolution isn’t reached. This should be a last resort, aiming for an amicable solution first.
  • Legal Consultation: Consult a medical malpractice attorney if further action is required.

Ideally, an ethical dentist would readily address the issue and provide you with a new, properly matched crown. We hope you won’t need to involve the state dental board or legal counsel.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.  Read about what he does to give patients the best dental care he can.