Shiny But Suspect: Why It’s Time to Replace Your Metal Dental Crown

Metal crowns were once the gold standard (literally) in dental restorations, but today, they’re a little outdated. While they’re still strong and durable, metal crowns don’t blend in with your natural teeth and can sometimes cause discomfort or sensitivity. If you’re still sporting one, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Keep reading to see why making the switch to a ceramic dental crown could be the best move for your smile.

Metal Dental Crowns Stand Out

Metal crowns are anything but subtle. Whether they’re silver, gold, or something in between, they don’t match the rest of your smile. In contrast, modern crowns are made from tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain and can be color-matched to your surrounding teeth. This creates a seamless, natural look that can boost your confidence and help you love to smile again.

A Porcelain Dental Crown Won’t Cause Sensitivity

Because metal is reactive to temperature, some patients experience sensitivity or discomfort with metal crowns, especially when eating hot or cold foods. In rare cases, people with metal allergies may also see inflammation or gum irritation near their restoration.

Upgrading to a tooth-colored dental crown can eliminate these issues and make eating and drinking more comfortable again.

Metal Dental Crowns Often Hide Decay

Even though dental crowns are designed to cover and protect an entire tooth, they need to be periodically replaced. This allows your dentist to assess the health of the tooth underneath and reduce the risk of damage from wear and tear.

In the case of metal crowns, decay can be harder to detect. Unlike ceramic or porcelain restorations, metal is opaque on X-rays, which can make it difficult to spot early signs of dental caries beneath the surface. As a result, problems may go unnoticed until they become more advanced.

A Porcelain Dental Crown Won’t Degrade Your Dental Implants

If you have a dental implant or plan to receive one, it’s worth considering a switch from metal crowns to porcelain. While titanium implants are highly resistant to corrosion, dissimilar metals in your mouth can trigger galvanic corrosion. This is a slow, electrochemical reaction that occurs in the presence of saliva.

Over time, this reaction can degrade the implant surface or surrounding tissues. Porcelain, on the other hand, is non-metallic and non-conductive, making it a safer, more biocompatible choice for long-term implant health.

If your metal crown is affecting your confidence, comfort, or oral health, don’t wait until it becomes a problem. Today’s materials are stronger, safer, and far more natural-looking than ever before! Talk to your dentist to see if a replacement crown is right for your smile. You might be surprised by the results!

About the Practice

North Jacksonville Complete Dentistry is happy to provide comfortable, modern care for every member of your family. Using advanced technology and techniques, their team offers restorative and cosmetic solutions that keep smiles healthy and confident. Whether you’re updating an old metal crown or exploring other treatment options, you’re in great hands. Call (904) 751-4958 to schedule a consultation with us or visit our website to explore other services.