Will Teeth Whitening Work With Fillings?

If your teeth are yellow or stained, you can get a whitening treatment to rejuvenate your smile. That is unless you have fillings (or veneers or crowns for that matter.) 

Unfortunately, teeth whitening doesn't work on dental fillings. Why and what can you do instead? 

Keep reading to learn more. 

How Teeth Whitening Works? 

Teeth whitening treatments use a bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to remove stains. These chemicals penetrate the tooth's structure to reach the discolored molecules in your teeth. 

But, this process is possible because your teeth are porous and allow the bleaching substance to penetrate the enamel and reach stains that are deeper than the surface levels. 

Things are different when it comes to fillings. 

Why Does Teeth Whitening Not Work With Fillings? 

The primary reason is that the material fillings are made of do not respond to bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As a result, if you whiten your teeth, any dental restorations you have will remain the same color they were before the treatment.

This can lead to some very odd results since your natural teeth will become noticeably whiter than your restorations. 

What Can You Do If Your Fillings Are Stained or Discolored? 

If you have dental fillings that have become discolored or stained over time and you'd like them to be whiter, the best solution is to have them replaced. Dr. Jonathan Siverson can have a look at your filling and determine if getting a new one is the way to go or if he can revamp them by removing some surface stains. 

If your fillings are old and are approaching the end of their lifespan, Dr. Jonathan Siverson can remove them, whiten your natural teeth, and then create a new filling in the shade of your newly whitened smile. He can also provide some tips on how to maintain your fillings whiter for longer, such as: 

• Coming in for regular checkups and cleanings. Professional dental cleanings can help remove surface stains and maintain your natural teeth and fillings whiter for longer. 

• Regular brushing and flossing can prevent plaque buildup and keep your smile looking healthy and white 

• Limit the consumption of staining foods. Drink a tall glass of tap water after eating things like berries, tomatoes, curry, etc. 

• Avoid drinking colored sodas, red wine or highly acidic drinks. 

• Drink coffee through a straw 

Do You Want a Brighter Smile? We Can Help! 

If you are looking for a quick and effective way to rejuvenate your smile, at Forest Lake Smiles, we offer a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry services, including teeth whitening. And, if you have fillings, veneers, or crowns, we will look for the best solution so that you can enjoy a beautiful and even smile. 

Contact us online or call us at 651-464-8207 to book your appointment.