Why Should You Switch to a Metal-Free Dental Crown?

You may be used to having a dental crown made entirely out of metal. However, your current crown will eventually need to be replaced. When that time comes, you should consider switching to a metal-free restoration. There are several advantages to trading a metal crown for a metal-free one; below are 4 particularly important examples.

1. Metal-Free Crowns Can Help You Look Younger

Metal dental crowns tend to stand out, making it obvious that you have had dental work done. This can cause you to appear older in the eyes of some people. However, metal-free dental crowns are much more lifelike, allowing them to closely resemble natural teeth. This goes a long way toward helping you maintain a more youthful appearance.

2. Metal-Free Crowns Are Less Likely to Lead to Sensitivity

Metal is known for its ability to conduct heat. As such, if a metal crown comes in contact with anything hot or cold, you might end up feeling it in your tooth, which can result in significant discomfort. Metal-free crowns do not have this problem and thus are less likely to cause sensitivity issues.

3. Metal-Free Crowns Won’t Interfere with MRI Scans

Some treatments may require an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. Unfortunately, certain metals that are sometimes found in crowns can interact with the magnetic fields and lead to problems. Oftentimes, the crown will cause the images to come out distorted. In extreme cases, however, the magnet might pull the crown off the tooth entirely.

Needless to say, having a metal-free crown means that you can completely avoid these issues. You can therefore simply have any necessary MRI scans performed without worrying about your dental restoration.

4. Metal-Free Crowns are Healthier

Some of the materials found in metal crowns can potentially result in problems for your body. For example, some crowns contain nickel, which can cause the gums to turn green. On top of that, certain individuals can even have allergic reactions to metal crowns. Metal-free crowns are generally a safer choice when it comes to your overall oral health.

Is It Time to Have Your Crown Replaced?

After learning about the advantages of metal-free crowns, you may be looking forward to making the change the next time you need a new restoration. But how will you know when that is? In general, a crown needs to be replaced if it has become visibly damaged or worn down. Other warning signs include receding gums and swelling around the tooth in question.

When the time comes to get a new dental crown, be sure to ask your dentist about the options that are available. If metal-free crowns are offered, they can be an excellent choice for restoring and protecting your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Jeffrey R. DeMartino has been in the dental field for over 30 years. He has advanced training in various aspects of dentistry, allowing him to provide many different services. He can restore damaged teeth with metal-free crowns made out of lifelike ceramics or zirconia. To schedule a consultation with Dr. DeMartino at DeMartino Dental Group in Phillipsburg, visit his website or call (908) 859-5260.