Do you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth? If so, then a dental crown may be the ideal solution for you. With this restoration, you’ll be able to renew the look and function of your smile in only a few visits. However, you might be concerned if you begin to notice a black line around your dental crown. Read on to learn about the cause of this condition and what you can do to return the beautiful appearance of your pearly whites!
Why Is There a Dark Line Around My Dental Crown?
You shouldn’t panic if you begin to notice a dark line around the base of your restoration. After all, this can typically happen for those who received porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns. The tooth-colored material will blend in flawlessly with the rest of your teeth, but the metal portion offers the necessary durability for biting into and chewing your meals. Over time, this material can begin to peek through near the base, resulting in a black line around your replacement tooth. Although this doesn’t mean your restoration is deteriorating, it may be natural for you to consider treatment options that are more aesthetically appealing.
How Can I Address the Issue?
If the dark line around your dental crown is unappealing to you, then you can opt for metal-free restorations to fix it. This tooth replacement option constructs your new pearly whites from high-quality materials like porcelain, providing a more natural-looking solution that’s as strong as it is dazzling. These restorations also come in various shades, meaning your dentist can seamlessly match them with the rest of your smile. Not only do they reflect light much like natural teeth, but your results will also be able to last 10 years or more with proper care. Feel free to ask your dentist about metal-free dental crowns if you’re interested!
6 Ways to Preserve a Dental Crown
While porcelain is highly resistant to staining and immune to cavities, it can still become discolored over time and the underlying tooth can decay. To avoid these complications, make sure to practice the following measures:
- Brush for two minutes twice a day
- Floss and rinse with mouthwash regularly
- Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings
- Use a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages like coffee and sodas
- Avoid bad oral habits like smoking and chewing on ice
- Minimize your consumption of sugary meals and drinks
If you’ve noticed a black line around your dental crown and want to improve it, don’t hesitate to consult your dentist about metal-free restorations. They’ll be glad to assess your situation and determine the right treatment to restore your beautiful smile!
About the Author
Dr. Zahir Siddiqui earned his dental doctorate from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry. He’s also a member of several organizations such as the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He provides a wide variety of high-quality and comprehensive services, including metal-free restorations and dental crowns. If you’d like to set up a consultation, visit his website or call him at 262-672-2393.