Why Do Porcelain Crowns Get a Dark Line? Fix Repair Replace Damaged Crown Dental Implants Metal Base

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What causes dark lines at the base of porcelain crown?

Porcelain crowns are a commonly used method of dental restoration to replace broken, chipped, and missing teeth. Like many areas of dentistry, crowns have had recent advancements in the technology used to make and apply them. This is good news to anyone who has a previously placed crown and had problems with them being too bulky, not fitting properly, or having a dark line at the base of the gum.

Grey and blackish darkening with crowns is unfortunately quite common. While the function of the crown may be fine, it can be frustrating to have unattractive shadowing on crowns, especially if it´s in the place of a front tooth. What causes this?

There are three primary reasons why dark lines form at the gum line with porcelain crowns:

• The traditional method for crown placement uses a metal base that is attached to the tooth. The amount of metal-to-porcelain will determine how much grey metal will show. Sometimes the amount of porcelain at the gum line may not be thick enough.

• Cheap metals (such as tin) may be used which allows leaching and a ´tattoo´ effect on the gums

• There may be a gap between crown and tooth attachment that can´t be cleaned, allowing food and debris to permanently accumulate.

If crowns are made with a base of metal the key to a successful aesthetic outcome is to have adequate amount of porcelain coverage to mask the grey of the metal base. Poorly fitting crown work may initially look fine but over time the gap will reveal itself. The good news is that crowns can now be made without metal at all. The best crowns have a glasslike finish with no visible seams.

How can you ensure you get a crown that is properly made and placed?

Dental crown and implant work is part of what is known as reconstructive or cosmetic dentistry. This is not an actual specialty designated by the ADA but the work involved is much more extensive than the average general dentist can handle. The primary reason for this is that while technology is constantly advancing, most dentists are not continually pursuing additional training. Porcelain and composite materials require a level of artistry in addition to straightforward skill; this is not an aspect that is easily taught if the doctor in question has no intrinsic artistic inclinations. Choosing an inexperienced dentist to complete work that is best done by one who specializes in the area is the fastest way to increase your chances of unsatisfactory crown work.

Choose the dentist who does your cosmetic and reconstructive work wisely.

NYC Smile Design offers full cosmetic dentistry services for restorative, cosmetic, and neuromuscular procedures in the New York City area. Dr. Tabib and Dr. Mello seek to implement the latest in dental technology and employ a team of thoroughly knowledgeable professionals for every step of your care. In an atmosphere of calm elegance and efficiency, they will meet with you to discuss your health goals and the best options available to you. Everyone wants a pleasing and natural smile; don´t go through the process of restorative dental work only to be frustrated with an unattractive outcome. Properly placed teeth that are clean, white and natural looking will create the smile everyone wants to have. To get more information or to book a free consultation, visit www.nycsmiledesign.com or call 212-452-3344.