3 Reasons to Replace Your Metal Crown

So long as it’s stable and undamaged, you may think there’s no reason for replacing a metal crown. Better to stick to the old saying, right? “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” However, that attitude doesn’t cover the advantages of changing out your old, metallic treatment with a newer one.

Here are three reasons you’d be better off if you replaced your current metal crown. See how your smile would benefit from an updated restoration from your dentist.

Metal Crowns Age Your Appearance

Metal crowns are a relatively older and more noticeable type than present-day alternatives. People who see them in your mouth will likely conclude that you’re more aged than you really are.

You can reverse this effect by getting all-porcelain crowns as replacements. Compared to metallic models, ceramic porcelain ones look more natural and blend easily with tooth enamel. As such, they’ll make you look younger. They also won’t detract from your pearly whites with unsightly exposed metal.

Metal Crowns Make Your Teeth Sensitive

The gold, silver, and other alloys used in metal crowns often make teeth sensitive. Because these minerals conduct heat, their crowns conduct temperature changes from hot or cold liquids. The result is that your teeth can feel pain when hot or cold drinks touch the treated area.

Suppose sensitivity is keeping you from enjoying your favorite hot and cold products. In that case, you might do better if you replace your crowns. Ceramic substitutes wouldn’t experience this temperature issue.

Metal Crowns are Bad for Your Health

Perhaps most importantly, metal crowns are often detrimental to your health.

First, people aren’t designed to have metal in their mouths. For example, dental crowns made of nickel can cause your gums to turn green, as well as a significant allergic reaction. The latter response can then result in annoying and disabling systemic flu-like symptoms.

Furthermore, metal crowns can both cause and hide decay. They could conceal already-existing tooth damage by covering the entire visible part of your tooth. In many dentists’ experiences, removing a metal crown exposes previously unnoticed decay. On the other hand, porcelain types don’t have such a high decay risk.

Even when they “work,” metal crowns have issues that could be resolved with non-metal alternatives. Talk to your dentist about these latter options to find one that does more to help your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Gary Rosenfeld is one of the best dentists in East Islip, New York. With over thirty-five years of experience, he is versed in dental treatments that span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Whether you need a dental checkup or a dental crown, he will help your smile reach its potential. Dr. Rosenfeld currently practices at East Islip Dental Care and can be reached at his website or by phone at (631)-581-8600.