Let’s go over the reasons why these dark lines appear, and what we do at NYC Smile Design to avoid them:
Metal-Based Porcelain Crowns
Traditionally, porcelain crowns are made with a silver-colored metal base. This base is used because, when cemented to the tooth, it gives strength to the porcelain and helps prevent fractures. Unfortunately, as it reaches the gumline, the porcelain gets thinner and thinner; eventually, the metal base will reflect through. The crown may look good initially. But as the gum recedes throughout the years it exposes the thinner section of the porcelain, and the dark lines appear again after years of use.
Cheaper Non-Precious Metals Used
Many times these traditional crowns have a metal base made of cheaper, non-precious metals, such as tin. These metals can eventually leach out and tattoo the gum edges – and, once again, a dark line will appear. Worse yet, many people develop are allergy to these metals over time, and the gums become inflamed and bluish in appearance at the edges.
Ill-Fitting Porcelain Crown
If the porcelain crowns do not completely fit the tooth or seal it well, staining will eventually accumulate at the tooth’s edges. This is not just a dark-line-issue at this point; it can eventually damage the the underlying tooth by allowing bacteria and plaque to start the process of decay.
Solutions from NYC Smile Design
At NYC Smile Design, we take every precaution to avoid these situations completely. First, we never use metal-based crowns. The more contemporary porcelains are extremely durable and are bonded to the teeth, rather than cemented. This gives strength to the porcelain and also avoids the possibility of fractures.
When it comes to bonding porcelain crowns or veneers, we are extremely meticulous and fastidious in creating a glass-like finish against the tooth. This both minimizes staining at the tooth edges and prevents any leakage underneath them.
To find out what sets NYC Smile Design apart when it comes to helping patients repair their teeth without marring the quality of their smile, please call 212-452-3344 or visit our website. Dr. Mello and Dr. Tabib serve patients in and around Manhattan and other areas of New York City.