If you got a dental crown several years ago, you may have noticed an unsightly black line between your crown and your gums. This type of problem practically screams that you’ve had dental work done, since natural teeth don’t develop these lines. So, why are they there? Keep reading below as we discuss the reasons why black lines sometimes form around dental crowns in Moses Lake, and how your dentist can treat the problem.
What Causes These Black Lines?
There are two possible reasons why a black line has formed around the base of your crown. The more likely reason is that part of the restoration is beginning to erode. Older crowns are typically made of porcelain fused to metal. While the outer layer is made of dental porcelain that can be personalized to mimic the shade of your surrounding teeth, a layer of metal, usually a gold or silver alloy, lies underneath. Although the metal strengthens the crown, it certainly doesn’t look like a natural part of your smile.
As the outside layer of porcelain is subjected to years of biting and chewing forces, it can gradually weaken, revealing part of the underlying metal. Receding gums, whether they’re due to gum disease or simply aging, can also expose this line.
Another reason for the black line might be an optical illusion. A dental crown that doesn’t fit correctly can sometimes cast a shadow over the surrounding area. However, this is a significantly rarer reason for a black line around a crown.
What Can You Do About It?
The best way to get rid of the black line is to replace your old crown with a brand-new one. In most cases, crowns these days are made purely of dental porcelain. Because the entire restoration matches the color of the rest of your pearly whites, a black line won’t form around the base. Even without metal, these crowns are still strong enough to stand up to practically any food. Plus, they can last up to 15-20 years if you take good care of them with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.
If you’ve noticed an unattractive black line tarnishing your smile, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist and ask about your options. They can get your smile looking beautiful again in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Craig Harder is a dentist in Moses Lake, WA who attended dental school at Creighton University and has been practicing for more than 20 years. Throughout the course of his career, he has taken hundreds of hours of continuing education courses, with a focus on dental esthetics. This means he has the training necessary to design lifelike dental crowns. If you have a black line around your crown, Dr. Harder can easily take care of it. To get started, visit his website or call his office at (509) 765-4351.