Historically, dentists relied on amalgam restorations, like silver dental crowns, to repair damaged or decayed enamel. Although these metallic mixtures are incredibly durable and can withstand the pressure of daily biting and chewing, they also can cause potential problems, such as causing increased sensitivity or drawing unwanted attention to your appearance.
Thankfully, most providers today are happy to replace outdated metal dental work with contemporary, tooth-colored solutions that often last just as long. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential perks of upgrading your dental crown with more modern materials!
Benefit #1: Enhance Your Appearance
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are cemented over injured or decayed teeth to preserve their functionality. With one of these covers in place, you can continue to use your tooth to bite, chew, and speak normally. However, if you still have a metallic dental crown in place, especially if it’s located in the front of your mouth, you might try to remain tight-lipped instead of chatting or smiling with others to avoid being judged for your appearance. The amalgam materials can leave your tooth looking dark and dirty or glint unpleasantly in the sunlight.
Meanwhile, tooth-colored restorations are made from resilient ceramic that reflects light like enamel and can be customized to match the size, shade, and shape of your natural teeth for beautiful, seamless results that boost your confidence.
Benefit #2: Prevent Sensitivity
Another disadvantage of more traditional amalgam repairs is that materials can easily carry changes in temperature, increasing patients’ sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. Not only that, but some people with allergies to some of the metallic components might also experience additional discomfort, irritation, or other symptoms.
Thankfully, the ceramics used for contemporary tooth-colored crowns are made from FDA-approved, Class II medical devices, meaning that they meet specific efficacy and safety standards. Not only that, but the porcelain used for these restorations is much less likely than metal to induce sensitivity or trigger an allergic reaction.
Benefit #3: Avoid Potential Mercury Exposure
Would you be surprised to learn that metallic dental repairs contain mercury, which can sometimes be toxic? It releases vapors in your mouth that can be swallowed or inhaled, eventually increasing the amount of mercury absorbed into your system. Although it’s not always harmful, some patients develop medical concerns, such as kidney diseases or neurological problems, from overexposure to this potentially dangerous substance.
Fortunately, porcelain dental crowns don’t contain this risky ingredient, making them a much safer option for many patients.
If you’re still unsure whether you would benefit from replacing you amalgam crown with a more contemporary option, you can learn more by scheduling a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
Patients at Amaze Dental benefit from two dentists who are passionate about helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Najjar and Dr. Le collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including customizable tooth-colored dental crowns, to meet your unique needs at one convenient location. Their caring approach is paired with state-of-the-are technology to deliver more accurate, comfortable treatment results. If you have an amalgam repair and want to replace it with a more contemporary restoration, you can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 230-1100.