Why You Should Replace Your Metal Crown with a Metal-Free One

Do you have a metal crown? You likely got it years ago when it was the only option available. Thankfully, modern dentistry now offers metal-free crowns so you can enjoy a healthier and more natural-looking smile! There might have been several good reasons why metal crowns were used in the past. But now, there are just as many (or even more) reasons to get rid of them. Read on to find out why you shouldn’t think twice about replacing a metal crown.

It Takes Years Off Your Smile

When people see a metal crown in your mouth, they likely get the impression that you’re an older adult. After all, metal fillings are older technology, and most people don’t even need crowns before they reach a certain age. Luckily, replacing it with a metal-free one can reverse the clock and help restore your youth! Since it blends more seamlessly with your teeth, others are less likely to notice it when you speak or laugh.

Metal Crowns Are Unhealthy

Humans are not meant to have metal in their mouths. Most metal dental crowns are made using noble metals that don’t interact well with our bodies, such as nickel and mercury. Nickel not only causes some people’s gums to turn green, but it can also cause a severe allergic reaction. On the other hand, mercury is simply well-known for being toxic.

They Can Make Your Teeth Sensitive

Individuals with metal crowns often report experiencing sensitivity to foods and drinks with extreme temperatures. Metal is a great conductor of heat, which is why when hot or cold liquid touches the crown, you can feel it right on the nerve, causing significant discomfort. Do you have trouble enjoying your favorite foods because of this sensation? It may be time to ask your dentist about replacing your dental crown with a metal-free one.

Metal Can Interfere with MRIs

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used in medical treatments to get more insight into your anatomy. Unfortunately, metal dental crowns can interfere with these scans. Certain materials, like nickel and gold, respond when placed in a magnetic field. They can distort pictures taken by the MRI or, in a worst-case scenario, fly off your teeth when drawn to the magnet.

They Have a High Risk of Decay

A dental crown is placed over the entire visible portion of your tooth to protect it. However, it often just hides the damage that’s already happened, making it have a much higher risk of decay. You might think your crown has no problems, but it’s probably not the case. It’s best to remove the crown as soon as possible to prevent the problem underneath from becoming irreversible.

Replacing a metal crown can help you reap numerous benefits. At your next appointment, ask your dentist about switching to a metal-free one – you won’t regret it!

About the Practice

Our team at Wylie Family Dentistry always makes patients our number one priority. We go above and beyond to ensure that every step of your dental appointment is given the same standard. If you have old metal crowns, we can refresh your smile by replacing them with metal-free ones. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (972) 442-5599.