Do you still have a metal dental crown in your mouth? Even though these highly durable restorations worked great at the time you got them, dentistry has come a long way since then. Now, there are other options that are more aesthetically appealing and healthier. Porcelain has become the preferred material choice of many patients worldwide. Read on to learn from your dentist in Lady Lake why you may want to consider replacing a metal crown with a nonmetal version.
Metal Crowns Contain Mercury
Humans aren’t naturally supposed to have metal in their mouths constantly. This is especially the case for the mixture of metals used to make crowns. They include materials like mercury and nickel. Both metals can have serious effects on your body in higher quantities. Mercury is well-known for being toxic and nickel can cause an allergic reaction. While metal dental restorations only have a small amount of these materials and haven’t been shown to be dangerous, many in the dental field agree that it is best to avoid these metals when possible.
Increased Tooth Sensitivity
People who have metal dental crowns are more likely to experience sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. This is because metal is a great conductor of heat, so when more extreme temperatures contact a metal crown, you can feel it on your tooth. If you’ve been struggling with tooth sensitivity, your metal crown could be the main culprit.
Corrosion of Dental Implants
Titanium, the metal used for dental implants is not affected by magnetic fields, but it can help generate an electric current in your mouth. This happens when two dissimilar metals come together in a liquid with ions dissolved in it, such as saliva. This can lead to the weakening of one of the materials. Normally, titanium would not become weakened, but since gold is nobler, it could cause your dental implants to rust.
Higher Decay Risk
Even though dental crowns are meant to protect your teeth, sometimes they just conceal the damage, increasing the risk of decay. It’s a good idea to have your metal crown removed before this issue becomes irreversible.
Porcelain Crowns Make You Appear More Youthful
Once people see a metal filling in your mouth, they may think that you are older. This is simply because metal crowns are an older type of dental technology. By switching to a porcelain crown, you are likely to appear younger. Even for patients who have a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, the metal may still be visible and add some years to your appearance.
MRI Interference
Often, MRIs are used in medical treatments so doctors can have a better look at the anatomy of the body. However, metal crowns can interfere with them because certain materials, like nickel and gold, respond when placed in a magnetic field. This can cause images to be distorted and they can even come off your teeth when they are drawn to or repulsed by the magnet. In general, crowns and MRIs aren’t a great combination.
Metal crowns may have their benefits, but porcelain has become a better option. In addition to having a more natural appearance, they offer health benefits as well. Talk to your dentist in Lady Lake to see if switching to metal-free dental crowns is the ideal solution for you!
About the Practice
At RP Dental & Implants, we strive to help you stop hiding your teeth and want to show them off instead! For the past two decades, our team has worked hard for smiles in the Lady Lake area. Our dentists believe it is essential to offer a caring atmosphere where you feel welcome while receiving optimal treatment. If you are interested in a new dental crown, we can help with a custom-made restoration that will look natural and fit perfectly. You can schedule an appointment on our website or by calling (352) 750-0008.