In the past, metal crowns were the go-to treatment for repairing badly damaged teeth. They are both strong and long-lasting — they certainly served their purpose! However, they are less than ideal in a few ways. While some practices still offer them, many dentists now heavily favor non-metal alternatives. Is it time to replace your old metal crowns? Here are five reasons why you should consider doing so:
Non-Metal Crowns Look Better
There is no doubt that metal crowns call a lot of attention to themselves; they stand out starkly against the natural color of teeth! In contrast, non-metal crowns, such as ceramic and porcelain options, are designed to closely match the color and translucency of your natural teeth. This means that when you smile, speak, or eat, your crown blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. Onlookers may have no idea that you had to have some dental work done.
Metal Crowns Can Cause Sensitivity
Metal crowns can conduct temperature changes more readily than tooth enamel or ceramic, leading to uncomfortable dental sensitivity. If you are tired of feeling a sudden jolt when you drink iced water or sip hot coffee, a non-metal crown could provide better insulation and comfort.
Metal Crowns Have a Higher Risk of Decay
Although metal crowns themselves do not decay, the edge where the crown meets your natural tooth can become a hotspot for bacteria. If the fit is not perfect or if the crown ages, plaque and debris can accumulate around the margins and sneak beneath the restoration, thereby increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Non-metal crowns are often crafted with more precise technology, offering a better fit and reducing the likelihood of decay underneath or around the crown.
Many People Are Sensitive to Crowns
For some individuals, metal crowns can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities due to the materials used, such as nickel or other alloys. These reactions may manifest as gum irritation, inflammation, or discomfort around the crowned tooth. If you have noticed persistent soreness or redness near your crown, it may be due to a metal allergy. Non-metal crowns, like all-ceramic, are hypoallergenic and biocompatible, making them a safer choice for those with sensitivities.
Metal Crowns May Cause Corrosion of Your Dental Implants
Metal crowns can sometimes interact chemically with dental implants or other metal restorations in your mouth, leading to corrosion over time. This corrosion may compromise the integrity of your implant and even affect the surrounding gum tissue. Non-metal crowns do not pose this risk and are compatible with all types of dental implants.
Non-metal crowns are truly a step up from old-fashioned metal restorations! Talk to your dentist to find out if it is time for you to upgrade your smile.
Meet the Practice
At Vista Dental Care, Drs. Robert Vong and Dennez Avendano are proud to offer a broad range of services, including single-visit ceramic dental crowns made with advanced CEREC technology. If you are thinking about replacing old metal restorations, we would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our team in Sparks, NV, at 775-626-3535.