I want to see a metal-free dentist to replace my crowns on my front teeth because I’m starting to notice a grey line near my gums. I would like to see a cosmetic dentist to get porcelain veneers since they are metal-free. Then, I won’t have the same problem down the road.
When I asked my dentist to do porcelain veneers, he told me they aren’t an option and that I would need to replace them with metal crowns again since they are stronger. Are metal crowns my only option?
-Lindsey in Pennsylvania
Lindsey,
There are some things in your question that are accurate and others that are not. For example, porcelain veneers are a metal-free cosmetic dentistry treatment. However, they are not an option for you. When your teeth were prepared for the placement of a crown, much of your natural tooth is removed. Therefore, the crown fits in place over top of the prepared tooth. A porcelain veneer adheres to the surface of a tooth. So, they will not work for you because they would leave the back portion of your tooth susceptible to decay.
In regard to your dentist’s suggestion for new porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, he is correct in that these types of crowns are strong. However, for a front tooth, a metal-free dentist or most excellent cosmetic dentists for that matter will recommend an all-porcelain, metal-free crown. This way you don’t have to worry about the grey line again that is appearing as your gum recedes over time. It is possible that the metal crown was recommended if you have a tendency to grind your teeth.
It would be in your best interest to consult with an experienced cosmetic dentist in your area to better understand what your options are.
This post is sponsored by Petaluma dentist Dr. Rick Lane.