Metal dental crowns used to be the only option dentists had to fix their patients’ damaged teeth, but those days are long gone. If you’re tired of or insecure about people commenting on your metal crown every time you speak or laugh, modern dentistry has your back. There are now dental crowns made of non-metal materials that can offer you several advantages over their predecessors. Here are 4 reasons you shouldn’t hesitate to replace your metal dental crowns.
Reason #1: Metal-free dental crowns are more aesthetically pleasing.
There’s nothing natural-looking about vibrant, shiny metal in your mouth. Although they are effective, metal dental crowns look nothing like enamel and won’t go unnoticed. If you’re insecure about your highly visible restorations, it’s time to opt for a crown made of non-metal materials.
It’s no secret that metal crowns are a staple of older dental technology. As a result, it’s not uncommon for people to draw an association between older individuals and metal restorations. Replacing your metal crown with a porcelain one allows for your restoration to blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. It’ll turn back the clock and make it look like you have no dental work done at all!
Reason #2: Metal dental crowns can cause sensitivity.
For anyone who experiences temperature sensitivity in their teeth, the root issue may be their metal crown. Metal is a great conductor of heat, so the extreme temperature changes shoot down right through the tooth. This can cause discomfort or even pain, turning a beloved cup of coffee or ice cream cone into a negative experience.
Metal-free crowns are typically ceramic or dental porcelain, meaning they are far less likely to carry the temperature throughout your tooth.
Reason #3: Metal dental crowns can hide tooth decay.
A dental crown is designed to cover your tooth. While this protects teeth that are damaged or worn down, it can also conceal oral health issues if your restoration is made of metal alloys. This can often go unnoticed until the decay progresses to the point where it becomes irreversible. Therefore, you should have your metal crown replaced so your dentist can see what’s going on underneath, even as a preventive measure.
Reason #4: Metal dental crowns can interfere with MRIs.
Depending on what metal your crown is made of, it may warp or distort imaging. While there are certain types of metal (like titanium) that won’t react to magnetic fields, others (like nickel) will. The best option is to avoid this risk completely by replacing your metal crown with one that is entirely metal-free.
If you think it’s time to replace your old metal crown, consult your dentist about what material might be best for your new one! You’ll soon have a virtually undetectable restoration that will make your smile eye-catching for all the right reasons.
About the Practice
At Baldwin Family Dental, our dentists provide tooth-colored dental crowns so you get all the benefits of fixing the appearance and function of your smile without drawing attention to your treatment. Our practice is proud to offer same-day restorations, so the whole process from crafting to placement can be done in one visit. If you want an effective, lifelike, and quick dental crown, contact us at our website or by phone at (850) 215-0128.