Whether you have a severely decayed tooth or you just underwent a root canal, dental crowns in Knoxville, TN, are an effective treatment to restore your tooth to optimal condition and prevent extraction.
While crowns are reliable and long-lasting, patients sometimes notice a black line developing on their gum line along their crown. This is especially true after having the restoration for several years. Various factors could be causing the discoloration.
Why Do Gums Darken Around Dental Crowns?
There are various reasons why you may notice grey gums around the edge of your dental crown:
- Metal Showing Through: Many dental crowns are composed of metal alloys, which frequently include metals like beryllium, nickel, chromium, or gold. If the gum tissue around the crown recedes, exposing the metal underneath, there may be a grey discoloration along the gum line.
- Cement Washout: The crown is securely held in place by dental cement. Sometimes after placement, extra cement may still be visible along the crown's edge. This may eventually cause the nearby gum tissue to turn grey or black.
- Titanium Abutments: Some people may experience gum discoloration if a titanium implant abutment supports their crown.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque can build up along the gum line when brushing and flossing around a crown incorrectly. Gum tissue discoloration from this plaque may be orange-brown, black, or grey.
Have More Questions About Your Dental Crowns in Knoxville, TN?
It’s not uncommon to notice discoloration around the edge of a dental crown. While this is often harmless, it's a good idea to have it looked at by your dentist. At Brian Rich DMD, we’ll ensure your crown is healthy and explore cosmetic options to remove the discoloration if it impacts your confidence in your smile.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
