If you’re struggling with a moderately decayed or damaged tooth, then you’re likely considering getting a dental crown to restore it. This protective cap is designed to rebuild the structure and appearance of compromised pearly whites after just a few visits. Over time, however, you may notice a dark line forming around the base where the restoration meets the tooth. Keep reading to learn why this might happen and what you can do to fix the issue.
What Causes a Dark Line Around a Dental Crown?
Even if you see a dark or black line around your dental crown, there’s no need to panic. This is entirely normal if you have a porcelain-fused-to-metal restoration. Though the porcelain material can blend in successfully with the rest of your smile, the metal portion provides durability for biting and chewing. That said, this part of the crown can begin to be exposed over time, creating a dark line around the base. While this doesn’t mean your dental cap is wearing down, it may be reason enough to want a replacement soon.
How Do You Address a Dark Line at the Base of Your Crown?
If you have a dark line around your crown and aren’t happy with how it looks, then you might consider replacing it with a metal-free restoration! This lifelike solution will be constructed out of high-quality materials like ceramic and porcelain, which provide the necessary strength for chewing food without any metallic portions. Your dental crown will be able to reflect light similar to natural enamel, allowing you to enjoy a restoration that matches perfectly with the rest of your teeth.
Ways to Preserve Your Dental Crown
While porcelain is highly stain-resistant and immune to cavities, it can still become discolored over time and the underlying tooth can be susceptible to decay. To avoid these complications, you’ll want to practice the following measures:
- Brush your teeth twice daily
- Floss and rinse with mouthwash frequently
- Drink through a straw when enjoying coffee, soda, and other dark-colored beverages
- Minimize your consumption of sugary foods and drinks
- Avoid bad oral habits, like smoking and chewing on ice
- Visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months
A dark line around your dental crown only affects the aesthetics of your restoration and doesn’t impact its function. However, if you’re unhappy with how it looks, you can simply get a metal-free one instead for a healthy and beautiful solution!
About the Author
Dr. Sujal Patel studied at New York University and has been providing excellent care for nearly a decade. He’s also a member of various prominent groups like the American Dental Association and the 17th District Local Society. He provides multiple high-quality services, including metal-free dental crowns. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call him at 972-629-9339.