Do you have a dental crown? If you do, you are not alone! At least 15 million Americans have at least one. Fortunately, dental crowns can restore the look and function of your teeth in no time. But have you noticed a black line around the base of your crown after a few months? If so, your dentist in Allen is here to explain why and what you can do about it!
What Has Caused the Black Line?
A black line or darkness can eventually be noticeable at the base of an older dental crown. There is no need to worry though; this is not an uncommon occurrence. It is usually caused by:
- Metal from the dental crown showing
- Shadows around a crown
- Silver fillings that have turned black
Older-style crowns have a layer of metal, usually gold alloy, underneath the porcelain. These are called PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) crowns. The metal framework provides extra strength to the dental porcelain when under tension. Initially, the black line may not have been visible, but gums tend to recede with time. This can make the metal more visible.
Although rare, the black line can also be caused by a poorly fitting crown casting a shadow over the surrounding area. These black lines are typically less prominent but can still cause concern when a natural, bright smile is the goal! Silver fillings that have turned black over time can also cause discoloration around a crown. A visit to your dentist can determine the cause of your concern.
How Can It Be Fixed?
Although you have been bothered by the darkened appearance of your smile, the good news is this issue is completely fixable! In most cases, the only solution is to replace your current crown with a metal-free restoration. These cosmetic options are an aesthetically pleasing and reliable alternative to the typical metal, silver, or gold. Metal-free dental restorations look just like real tooth enamel and are resistant to chipping and cracking, so you can eat all your favorite foods confidently and comfortably!
How Can You Keep Your Crown in Great Condition?
Although modern dental crowns are made from stain-resistant and cavity-resilient material, they can still discolor and the underlying tooth can decay. Therefore, it will be helpful to:
- Use a straw to drink coffee, wine, and other dark-colored beverages
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss and rinse with mouthwash consistently
- Visit your dentist biannually for a checkup and cleaning
- Keep your consumption of sugary foods and drinks to a minimum
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on ice and smoking
After a while, your bright smile can be marred by black lines around the base of your dental crown. Fortunately, a visit to your dentist and a metal-free dental restoration can easily put that gleam back into your beam!
About the Author
Dr. Tonie Lewis and her team at Allen Smile Design serve the families of Allen and the surrounding areas. With a focus on going above and beyond to get you the healthiest, brightest smile possible, she offers a full range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency care. As a proud member of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, she can repair and restore your pearly whites with customized dental crowns or other options. To make an appointment, contact her through her website or call (972) 954-9728.