A dental crown in Castle Rock can be beneficial should you need added protection for a damaged or decayed tooth. You may be pleased with the look and natural appearance the moment your dentist bonds it in place. But after years of wear, you may begin to notice a black line appearing around the base of your crown. What does it mean? Should you be worried? A dentist is here to answer these questions as well as what you can do to ensure the health and aesthetics of your smile.
The Dreaded Black Line: What Does It Mean?
When you initially received your dental crown, you and your dentist may have chosen a porcelain-fused-to-metal material. While this is a reliable option that not only offers optimal strength as well as a pleasing aesthetic, it also poses a potential problem should the thin metal begin to show.
Why does this happen? Here are just a few reasons:
- Your gums are receding as a result of periodontal disease
- Years of wear and tear is causing the metal to show through the porcelain when exposed to light
- Decay has formed underneath your crown, on your natural tooth
No matter the reason you’re seeing a black line in Castle Rock, it’s best if you schedule an appointment to meet with your dentist to discuss the problem. If it’s simply because the metal is now more readily exposed because of light, you can look at alternative replacements. If it is because of gum disease or tooth decay, you’ll want to undergo necessary treatment right away.
How Your Dentist Can Help
When meeting with your dentist to determine the reason for the black line that is now clearly visible, you can expect them to carefully examine your smile using advanced dental technology. With X-rays, they can see underneath the crown to determine if decay or gum disease exists on or around the natural tooth. If so, the crown will be removed, and proper treatment will be administered based on the suggestions of your dentist.
However, if it is simply a matter of the metal starting to show through the porcelain, you can also discuss your eligibility for a metal-free dental crown. Many dentists nowadays offer CEREC one-visit restorations, which are crafted using a unique technology and software system that crafts your new crown in-house, during a single appointment. These restorations are made using all-porcelain, so there is no metal included.
If you want to get rid of that black line that is plaguing your smile, don’t be afraid to ask your dentist about alternative options designed to protect your smile and improve your appearance.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in Chapel Hill before going to work for Clinical Research Associates. For 12 years, he served as a dentist in the United States Air Force, completing a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry from 1994-1996. Moving to Castle Rock in 2002, he opened his practice and has been helping the city’s residents ever since. Offering CEREC crowns as a safe and effective alternative to traditional metal restorations, he and his team at Cowlitz River Dental can ensure the health of your smile with a crown that offers a more pleasing aesthetic. If you would like to inquire about replacing your metal crown with a CEREC restoration, visit our website or call (360) 703-9092.