Why Your Tooth-Colored Crown May Need To Be Replaced
ShareA crown can be fabricated from many different substances. However, some materials, such as stainless steel and gold, are noticeable in the mouth. Consequently, many patients prefer tooth-colored crowns for their aesthetic appeal.
A tooth-colored crown can be matched to the color of the patient's remaining teeth, making the resulting restoration more natural-looking. The crown, which is constructed from a mold of the patient's oral cavity, is still made of durable materials, such as porcelain or porcelain-over-metal. As a result, it fits comfortably in the mouth and restores proper mastication as well as its metal counterparts.
Although a permanent tooth-colored crown can last a lifetime, there are instances that warrant the crown's replacement. Here are a few of them.
The Recession of the Gums
The crown covers the portion of the tooth that is visible in the mouth. The remaining tooth material is concealed by the gums. However, as a person grows older or develops a gum condition, the gingival tissues may begin to recede or pull back from the teeth.
This recession can make the teeth appear longer. Additionally, it can reveal the top of the tooth-colored crown. To cover the newly revealed area of tooth material, the dentist may replace a current crown with a new, longer crown.
Physical Damage to the Crown
A tooth-colored crown can incur physical damage from substantial bite pressure or a blow to the mouth. People who suffer from bruxism often experience appliance damage from the pressure produced as the top and bottom teeth grind together.
Once a crown has become chipped or cracked, the damaged device may no longer adequately protect the underlying tooth. Therefore, the dentist may replace the crown.
During the replacement process, while the permanent crown is being produced by a dental laboratory, a temporary crown may be used in its stead to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready for insertion.
The Color of the Teeth Change
The color of a tooth-colored crown is matched to the predominant color of a patient's teeth. When a patient undergoes a whitening treatment, their natural teeth may become much whiter than the previously placed crown. Although the whitening solution may bleach stains from the natural tooth material, the crown material may remain unaltered.
Still, a new crown can be prepared to match the new whiter color of the teeth, making the device less noticeable in the mouth.
To learn more about tooth-colored crowns, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.