If you have a metal dental crown that’s been in place for years, you might be wondering whether it’s time for an upgrade. While metal crowns were once the go-to option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, today’s advancements in dental materials and aesthetics offer better alternatives. In fact, many patients are choosing to replace their old metal crowns with more modern, tooth-colored versions, and for good reason.
Here are 5 reasons you shouldn’t think twice about replacing your metal crown.
1. Improved Aesthetics
One of the most common reasons people replace metal crowns is purely cosmetic. Metal crowns—especially those made of gold or silver alloys—are highly visible when you talk, laugh, or smile. This can make you feel self-conscious, particularly if the crown is on a front tooth or visible when you open your mouth.
Modern crowns made of porcelain or zirconia are designed to blend in perfectly with your natural teeth. They are color-matched to your surrounding teeth, making them virtually undetectable. By upgrading, you can boost your confidence and enjoy a more seamless, natural-looking smile.
2. Metal Allergies or Sensitivities
Some patients develop sensitivity or allergic reactions to the metals used in older crowns. These reactions can lead to gum irritation, redness, or even a metallic taste in the mouth. Replacing your metal crown with a biocompatible material like zirconia or porcelain can help alleviate these symptoms and reduce the risk of further irritation.
3. Gum Line Discoloration
Older metal crowns, particularly those with a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) design, can cause a dark line to appear along the gum line over time. This shadow or gray tint occurs as the metal beneath the porcelain becomes visible due to gum recession or wear. Replacing the crown with an all-ceramic or all-zirconia version eliminates the metal entirely, offering a cleaner, more attractive look around the gums.
4. Better Technology and Fit
Dentistry has come a long way in recent years. Today’s digital tools and high-quality materials allow for crowns that fit more precisely and function more efficiently than older models. A new crown can improve your bite, reduce discomfort, and offer better long-term performance. If your old metal crown feels bulky or causes sensitivity, a replacement might give you a better experience overall.
5. Preserving Your Oral Health
A damaged, cracked, or loose metal crown can allow bacteria to enter beneath the crown and affect the underlying tooth. Replacing it promptly helps protect the tooth from decay or infection, potentially avoiding more extensive procedures like root canals or extractions down the line.
If your metal crown is showing its age or simply no longer suits your needs, replacing it with a more modern option can enhance your appearance, comfort, and dental health. With today’s advancements in cosmetic dentistry, you don’t have to settle for outdated materials. Talk to your dentist about your options—you may be surprised how simple and rewarding the upgrade can be.
About the Practice
Thinking about replacing your outdated metal crown? Premier Family Dental can outfit you with CEREC same-day crowns! No multiple drives back and forth to the dentist for crown placement – we can take care of it all in just one visit. We take digital dental impressions to get you reliable results, and did we mention the expedience of the experience? Our dental team performs great work quickly. If you’re ready for a more modern crown replacement, schedule your appointment online or call us at (254) 732-0309.