A good crown colour blends with the neighbouring teeth. Choosing it needs the right light and the right moment.
- A shade guide helps the dentist find the closest colour to natural teeth.
- Light, lipstick and dryness of the teeth shift the colour you perceive.
- Choose the shade in daylight after brushing.
- Match the neighbouring teeth instead of choosing a much whiter shade.
Many people feel that their new crown looks a little too bright or slightly yellow compared with what they expected. This is often caused by poor lighting during the shade selection rather than by a lack of skill. This article explains how a dentist chooses the colour with a shade guide and what you should know before the choice is made.
What a shade guide is
A shade guide is a row of small tooth samples, each with its own colour and code number, ranging from bright white to a slightly yellow tone. The dentist holds each sample next to your natural tooth to find the closest match. That information is then sent to the dental laboratory so the crown can be made in the right colour.
Why light changes the colour you see
- Warm lamps, white lamps and natural daylight all make a tooth look different.
- Lipstick, the colour of a gown or even the wall of the room can reflect onto the teeth.
- Looking for too long tires the eyes, and people tend to pick a brighter shade than reality.
- Teeth that have dried out for a while look whiter, so they should be compared while still moist.
How to prepare for shade selection
Brush your teeth before the colour is chosen, because plaque and stains make the colour look off. It is best to choose in soft daylight without strong lipstick. If you can, bring a relative along for a second opinion. Tell the dentist clearly what you hope for so the colour fits your face and your remaining teeth, and avoid a shade that is much whiter than the neighbouring teeth.
Once placed, porcelain stays stable over time better than natural enamel. You can read more in our articles on the difference between full porcelain and metal porcelain crowns and how long a crown lasts. You can walk in during working hours or call the hotline 028.3868.1097.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to choose a crown colour?
Choose during the day in soft light, when the teeth are moist and freshly cleaned.
Is a crown that is brighter than my natural teeth a problem?
It may stand out as artificial. A shade that blends with the neighbouring teeth looks more natural.
Does porcelain change colour over time?
Porcelain changes less than natural teeth, but plaque still needs regular cleaning.