Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are cemented over decayed or damaged teeth to help prevent additional injury while simultaneously preserving their function so you can continue using them to eat and speak normally.
Historically, these prosthetics were made from amalgam mixtures of metal, but today, most dentists provide more lifelike covers made from tooth-colored materials, like porcelain. If you still have a metal crown, continue reading to learn 3 convincing reasons to replace it with a more realistic restoration!
Benefit #1: Customizable Materials
The metals used for dental crowns are chosen because they’re strong enough to withstand the pressure of daily biting and chewing, but unfortunately, they don’t do much to improve your appearance. For example, they tend to glint in the sunlight or can leave teeth looking darker or dirtier than their neighbors, which attracts unwanted attention to your smile.
But today, most providers offer more realistic covers made from durable ceramic, such as porcelain, that reflects light more naturally like enamel. These materials can be customized to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth for seamless results that help improve your appearance and enhance your self-esteem.
Benefit #2: Prevent Potential Sensitivity
Not only can metal dental crowns detract from your looks, but some patients have allergies or develop sensitivity to their different components, which can trigger aches or inflammation that have no immediate cure.
The metal materials can also expand and contract with changes in temperature, such as when consuming overly hot or cold foods and drinks. Over time, these slight changes can gradually erode the enamel, which can further damage already-injured teeth or cause additional discomfort that’s unlikely to resolve itself without professional intervention.
Some dentists also have state-of-the-art technology onsite to provide same-day restorations that are printed or carved with special machines in-office to minimize wait times between your initial appointment and dental crown placement, reducing the risk of sustaining additional damage, which can hurt.
Benefit #3: Resilient Results
If you’re worried that replacing a metal crown with a tooth-colored one means you’re sacrificing longevity for appearance, you can thankfully set your concerns aside. The ceramic used for dental restorations is incredibly durable and is coated with a glaze strong enough to help resist damage and discoloration.
Because of this, porcelain prosthetics can last between 5 and 15+ years, which is often just as long as their metallic counterparts.
As you can see, there are several benefits to replacing an outdated or worn-down metal crown with a more lifelike restoration. If you are unsure whether this treatment is right for you, the best way to learn more is to contact your dentist for an appointment!
About the Practice
Patients at Dental Associates of Delaware benefit from an experienced team committed to helping them build and maintain the happiest, healthiest versions of their smiles. They share decades of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including toot-colored and same-day dental crowns, to meet even the most unique needs. You can request an appointment on the website or call one of their conveniently located offices near you!