Crown showing dark line: Job not well done?
Added: May 15, 2008 - 12:50 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Chestnut Hill, MA
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Case Summary
Crown
Teeth: 3
Case Description
A recently put crown shows a few millimeters of bare dark metal on the inside. Although it is on the inside, the dark line can be visible if I laugh or simply open my mouth wide. Is it normal or not a well done job by my dentist / crown lab? If indeed the crown was not well-made, can I demand a new crown?
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Reply: Crown showing dark line: Job not well done?
added: May 15, 2008 - 1:50 PM
This does not necessarily signify a job not well done. It appears that this particular crown is porcelain fused to metal, and the inner aspect of metal is what is showing. Different laboratories do various types of cut backs of the metal, and when in a non critically esthetic area, may choose to leave the metal ring on the lingual (towards the roof of the mouth or tongue) Functionally the crown is acceptable, however many patients prefer not to show any metal at all - so in this particular case choosing an all-ceramic crown (with no metal at all) or a porcelain fused to metal crown with the metal completely cut back so as no to show would be alternative options for you -- but would necessitate the replacement of the existing new crown. Hope this information helps.
Reply: Crown showing dark line: Job not well done?
added: May 15, 2008 - 2:45 PM
It is possible to create beautiful natural porcelain crowns and veneers where no line shows. Please visit my website at www.ultimateaesthetics.com for examples. Let me know if I can be of any help in evaluating your cosmetic needs.Steve Bader, DMD
Reply: Crown showing dark line: Job not well done?
added: May 15, 2008 - 3:45 PM
Dear patient, it is quite common and acceptable practice that a Porcelain Fused to Metal crown shows metal on the inside of the tooth -and in rare and specific occasions- it is designed with metal on the outside. So as long as the fit is acceptable this should be a well functioning crown that will serve you for several years. It is possible to design all ceramic crowns or -as one of my colleagues mentioned in his response- PFM crowns that do not show metal.I suggest that you discuss your concerns with your dentist, it is important to develop a trusting relationship with your dental care provider where you can openly share your concerns or dissatisfaction. I am sure your dentist will be happy to address and accommodate your request.Best of luck, Eyad Haidar DMD, CAGS
Reply: Crown showing dark line: Job not well done?
added: May 15, 2008 - 4:26 PM
If its on the inside its nothing but the metal lining which adapts better than the porcelain. Dentists leave it because its not in the aesthetic zone and therefore would have better adaptation to the tooth than the rest of the porcelain margin and so easier to clean and would accumulate less plaque.
Reply: Crown showing dark line: Job not well done?
added: May 15, 2008 - 8:03 PM
Q: Normal to show metal? A: Matter of preference of the dentist. Some like full coverage of porcelain and some don''''t. Generally speaking, more metal, the longer lasting since lesser chance of any porcelain breaking.Q: Job well done? A: Can''''t say BUT more metal showing is NOT an indication of sub-standard work.Q: Can you demand a new crown? A: If the crown is not what you expected or it is not up to standard, then you can always discuss the matter with the dentist. Demand? Why be confrontational?
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