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What is That Black Line Forming Around My Crown?

October 5, 2024

A woman looking at her teeth in the mirror.

Nobody ever says they wish they had darker teeth, but that’s exactly what can happen with time with older, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. That’s because as you age, your gums can recede, leaving behind a dark line around the edge of your tooth up at your gumline. Thankfully, this poses no risk to your teeth, however it doesn’t exactly look attractive. Thus, if you notice any metal exposure due to gum recession, it’s a great time to consider replacing your crown.

Why Do Gums Recede?

To understand why the metal edge of your crown is suddenly visible, you must first understand receding gums. As you age, your gums can recede a bit naturally, but sometimes this can happen as a result of gum disease. Gum disease occurs when your gums become infected with oral bacteria. This causes them to become puffy and swollen and can make them bleed when you brush and floss. It can also lead them to recede or pull back from the teeth, exposing their roots or the edges of your porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.

How to Treat Receding Gums

While replacing your crowns with a composite resin crown from your dentist will eliminate the dark edges around your gumline, it is important to also address the root cause of your gum recession. If you are experiencing any signs of gum disease, it is important to treat it, so it does not cause further damage. This type of infection can lead to a long list of oral health problems including bone deterioration and tooth loss if not taken care of quickly.

Replacement Crowns

Crowns are not permanent restorations, and usually need to be redone every ten or so years, depending on their condition. Your dentist can replace your older, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns with composite resin crowns that do not have any metal parts that could become exposed with time. These beautiful restorations look and feel just like your natural teeth, and they function just like them, too!

If you’re ready to hide those telltale dark lines from your old restorations, speak to your dentist today about upgrading your crowns, and soon you’ll have a smile fit for royalty!

About Dr. Bemani

Dr. Maryam Bemani strives to provide her patients with a pleasant dental experience. Her and the team at Advance Dental Clinic offer a kind, nurturing environment where you’ll never feel judged, rushed, or like just another number. They truly take the time to ensure that each person they treat understands their options, never feels pressured, and always feels right at home!

To schedule an appointment for crowns, please visit our website or call us today at 443-251-5580.