Can my tetracycline stained teeth be made to look pretty?
Tetracycline and other deep, intrinsic stains are best masked with custom crowns - veneers won’t suffice. Dr. Gerald Marlin uses translucent porcelain techniques to deliver a bright, natural-looking smile.
Tetracycline and other stained teeth can receive a complete smile makeover with crowns, not veneers. Typically, these cases require a special application of translucent porcelain to compensate for dark colorations, which can otherwise make crowns look artificially white.
Ms. U had been a patient of Elite Prosthetic Dentistry for 25 years before she decided to change her smile. She suffered her whole life with teeth that were very dark and stained from childhood tetracycline use. Since tetracycline is a deep, intrinsic stain, traditional whitening is not an option. We transformed her smile with dental crowns.
On the day her temporary crowns were placed, Ms. U experienced an immediate transformation. After her permanent crowns were seated, she couldn’t stop smiling with her beautiful new, bright teeth.
Fig. 1: All Teeth Severely Discolored
Fig. 2: Permanent Porcelain Crowns Covering Every Tooth
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tetracycline stains be whitened?
No. Tetracycline stains are intrinsic and cannot be lightened by bleaching. Crowns with specialized translucent porcelain are the recommended solution.
Will my gums look natural with crowns?
Yes. Dr. Marlin shapes both tooth and gum contours to ensure a seamless, natural appearance.
How long does treatment take?
Typically, 2-3 appointments over 4-6 weeks, including provisional and final crown placement.
How do I care for my new crowns?
Brush and floss daily, and visit us every 3-6 months for hygiene visits to protect your investment.
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