My dentist completed a root canal on my lower center front teeth. She said I would need crowns on the teeth, but their roots are short, so their strength and stability are uncertain. My dentist’s solution is to use porcelain fused to crown crowns instead of ceramic crowns for the teeth.  she would use two crowns on the root canal teeth and a crown on the teeth immediately to the right and left. She would ask the lab to connect the crowns at their side for stability. She said the metal could be unseen, and the crowns could look like individual teeth. What happens if my gums recede, and a dark line shows through them? My dentist says the lab can work with the crowns to minimize a dark line, which is the best solution for my weak teeth. Her solution surprised me. Does this sound like a reasonable way to address the concerns with my lower front teeth? Thank you. Angelica from Illinois

Angelica,

All-ceramic crowns look more natural at the gumline. When porcelain is fused to metal, a dark line may eventually show. However, be cautious about asking your dentist to use materials she may not feel comfortable using. You may get the treatment method you want by consulting a cosmetic dentist.

Your dentist wants to split the crowns together. Several factors are in favor of porcelain-fused-to-gold crowns.

1. A black line from the metal in a crown rarely shows on lower front teeth.
2. With a fused-to-gold crown, your dentist will grind away less tooth structure. Conservative tooth preparation is significant for small teeth.
3. Joining the metal in each crown provides a strong framework for your teeth.

From your description, your dentist’s recommendation seems reasonable and has advantages over all-ceramic crowns. However, a skilled cosmetic dentist can give you a second opinion and determine whether there is a more aesthetic and equally healthy way to restore your teeth.

 

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Delaune strives to be among the best dentists in Metairie.