For a long time, metal crowns were the standard treatment that dentists used to protect and strengthen damaged teeth. While such crowns are very durable, they also have some big drawbacks! If you are tired of your old metal crown, you have several good reasons to get it replaced as soon as possible with a non-metal alternative. This blog post discusses just some of those reasons.
Your Smile Will Look Better
Metal crowns stand out starkly against the natural white color of teeth. Metal-free crowns, on the other hand, are made of materials like ceramic and porcelain, which can be shade-matched to blend in beautifully with the surrounding dentition. Even if your crown is toward the front of your mouth, onlookers may have no reason to suspect it is not a natural tooth.
You May Experience Less Sensitivity
Metal conducts heat very well. When you use your metal crown to consume hot or cold foods, those temperatures can go straight through your restoration and irritate the underlying tooth. That can be painful! Metal-free crowns do not conduct temperatures as readily and may result in reduced sensitivity.
You May Be Healthier
Many metals do not work well within the human body. Some people have a bad reaction to nickel and other metals that are commonly found in metal crowns. For example, they might experience irritation in their oral tissues, or they may struggle with fatigue issues. A non-metal crown may help to eliminate such problems.
Metal Crowns Have a Higher Risk of Decay
A dental crown is meant to seal a tooth so that outside substances cannot irritate it or damage it. Unfortunately, metal crowns have a reputation for allowing outside bacteria to sneak beneath them, which can lead to decay in the underlying tooth. Non-metal crowns have a lower risk of this occurring.
Metal Crowns Can Interfere with MRI Scans
Nickel and gold react to magnetic influences, which means that they should not be subjected to an MRI scan. At best, they may distort the images. At worst, they might get pulled off your teeth! Your doctor might even require that the crowns be removed before performing an MRI scan. Metal-free crowns do not have this problem.
Replacing a Metal Crown Might Be Easier than You Think
If the tooth beneath your metal crown is still in decent shape, replacing your restoration might be pretty easy. In fact, thanks to modern CAD/CAM technology, you may be able to get a metal-free crown in just one appointment!
In many ways, metal crowns are inferior to their non-metal counterparts. Ask your dentist if you can upgrade your restoration!
Meet the Practice
At Southwest Dental Arts, we are committed to helping our patients enjoy healthy and confident smiles. We have even invested in CEREC technology to provide same-day metal-free crowns. If you are tired of your old restorations, get in touch with us to learn about your treatment options. Call our Boise office at 208-322-5655.