Why Is There a Black Line Around Your Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that fully covers a tooth, often used to protect and restore teeth that have been severely damaged. They shield the tooth from further harm and restore its appearance and function. However, if you notice a black line forming around your dental crown, you might be concerned. To help ease your worries, let’s explore why this happens and what your dentist can do to address it.

What’s Causing the Dark Lines?

Since dental restorations like crowns are designed to enhance your smile, dark marks or lines are definitely unwelcome. They not only detract from the appearance of your smile but also reveal which teeth have been restored.

Fortunately, a black line between your gums and crown isn’t typically a sign of an oral health problem. If you have a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, the dark line is likely the metal underneath showing through.

How Your Dentist Can Fix It

If your porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is on a tooth that’s visible when you smile, the dark line it creates can detract from your smile’s appearance. Crowns can be made from various materials, but modern options are typically porcelain or ceramic.

Porcelain crowns look realistic and can be perfectly matched to the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, allowing them to blend seamlessly. Unlike metal-based crowns, porcelain crowns are durable and don’t create black lines. Consider discussing with your dentist the possibility of replacing your porcelain-fused-to-metal crown with a full porcelain one to enhance your smile.

Maintaining Your New Crowns

A well-cared-for dental crown can last up to 15 years, but proper maintenance is essential. Here are some tips to help your porcelain crowns last as long as possible:

• Brush and floss – You can maintain your crowns by including them in your regular oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth, including your crowns, twice daily for two minutes each time, and floss before bed to keep your restorations in excellent condition.
• Wear your nightguard – If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist might recommend a nightguard to protect both your natural teeth and your crown. Additionally, wearing a mouthguard is essential if you participate in contact sports like football.
• Don’t use teeth as tools – Avoid using your teeth to open bottles or packages, as this can damage your crowns. Additionally, refrain from chewing on ice or other non-food items to protect your dental restorations.
• Visit your dentist – Schedule a dental checkup every six months to ensure your crowns and overall oral health are in good condition. Your dentist can catch and address any issues early, helping to protect your restorations.

Now that you understand why a black line appears on your dental crowns, consider discussing porcelain replacements with your dentist. Soon, your smile will be as radiant as ever!

About the Practice

Looking for a comfortable dental office with friendly, highly skilled oral health specialists? Look no further! Dr. Karen Ho, Dr. Stephanie Huynh, and the Campbell team are dedicated to providing top-notch care. They tailor treatments to your specific needs, ensuring ongoing oral healthcare is pleasant and effective. They can repair damaged or decayed teeth with durable, lifelike dental crowns, a popular option to protect your teeth and restore confidence in your smile. For more information on dental crowns or to schedule an appointment, call their office at (408) 558-9444 or visit their website.