Dental crowns are restorations that are used to protect teeth that have been structurally damaged as a result of decay or another reason. They are hollow and placed over a compromised tooth as a way to protect it from enduring additional damage. If you have had a dental crown for a while now, you may notice that a dark line has formed around it. Reason on to learn what this is and what you can do about it.
Why Do You See a Black Line Around Your Crown?
When this occurs, this means that you have a “porcelain fused-to-metal” crown. The metal part of this restoration is used to provide strength to the crown, but it can result in a dark line that appears along the gumline. Many patients are unhappy with the appearance of this line because it takes away from the natural look of the restoration.
How Can You Remove This Black Line?
The only way that you can get rid of this black line entirely is by replacing your old crowns with new ones. Newer crowns are typically made from more natural-looking materials, especially if they are being placed on a tooth that is visible when you speak or smile. This means that you won’t develop this unsightly line that people with older dental crowns have. Crowns today are designed to be the exact size, shape, and color necessary to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
How to Keep Your Crown Looking Brand-New
While this type of black line in porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns cannot be prevented, you can prevent your dental crown from becoming discolored by using the same best practices you do for your natural teeth. Here are some steps you should take to keep your crowns in excellent condition for many years down the road:
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: You need to brush twice and floss at least once a day in order to remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria from building up on your gums, teeth, and crown.
- Cut Out Bad Habits: Don’t chew on ice, pens, or your fingernails. You could be putting your crown in harm’s way.
- Fight Against Bruxism: Do you have a tendency to grind or clench your teeth while you sleep or when you’re stressed? Talk to your dentist about this issue. You don’t want to end up damaging your crown or teeth.
- See Your Dentist: By seeing your dentist regularly for checkups, they can confirm that your crown is still in good shape.
If you don’t feel confident about showing off your smile because of a black line around your dental crown, talk to your dentist. This is a perfectly valid reason to want to have it replaced. You’ll be showing off your smile with pride again in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Megan McInnis earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Oregon Dental Association. For more information on dental crowns or to schedule an appointment at her office in Portland, visit her website or call (503) 761-1414.