Dealing with Silver Appearance in Dental Crowns: Solutions and Tips

Dentures

Hello, Doctor: After getting my dentures, I noticed that there are some silver spots on the occlusal surface (I have porcelain crowns).
Could it be that too much was ground away during the procedure, exposing the metal layer inside the crown? If this is the case, is there a way to remedy it? How would you handle this situation, Doctor?

Yihuo zhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/22

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The process of creating porcelain crowns requires appropriate reduction of the natural tooth structure to provide enough space for the thickness of the crown.
Typically, a porcelain crown needs about 1.5 mm of thickness at the occlusal surface (including the thickness of the inner metal layer and the outer porcelain layer), which means that 1.5 mm of the natural tooth must be removed.
However, in certain cases, the natural tooth may not have sufficient thickness to allow for the removal of 1.5 mm.
In such instances, the occlusal surface of the porcelain crown may be designed with a metal surface that is only coated with porcelain on the buccal side.
If porcelain is to be applied to the occlusal surface as well, it will depend on whether enough thickness can be reduced from the natural tooth without encroaching on the pulp chamber.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further evaluation and to seek solutions.

Reply Date: 2006/04/22

More Info

When you notice a silver appearance on the occlusal surface of your dental crown, especially if it is supposed to be a porcelain crown, it can be concerning. This silver color typically indicates that the underlying metal layer of the crown is exposed. This can happen for several reasons, including excessive grinding of the natural tooth structure during the crown preparation process, or it could be due to wear and tear over time.

Understanding the Issue
Porcelain crowns are often made with a metal substructure for strength, particularly in posterior teeth where the forces of chewing are greater. The ideal thickness for a porcelain crown is about 1.5 mm, which includes both the metal and porcelain layers. If the dentist had to remove too much of the natural tooth structure, it may lead to insufficient porcelain coverage, exposing the metal underneath.
In some cases, if the natural tooth does not have enough thickness to support the required porcelain layer, the crown may be designed with a metal occlusal surface, which can lead to the silver appearance you are seeing.

Possible Solutions
1. Consult Your Dentist: The first step is to return to your dentist for a thorough examination. They can assess whether the crown was fabricated correctly and if the exposure of the metal is due to the crown design or if it is a result of wear.

2. Crown Replacement: If the crown is indeed showing metal due to inadequate porcelain coverage, the most effective solution may be to replace the crown. This would involve removing the existing crown and fabricating a new one that has adequate porcelain coverage to prevent any metal exposure.

3. Repair Options: In some cases, if the metal exposure is minimal, your dentist might be able to apply a porcelain repair material to cover the exposed metal. However, this is generally a temporary solution and may not be as durable as a new crown.

4. Material Consideration: If you are concerned about the aesthetics of metal crowns, you may want to discuss alternative materials with your dentist. All-ceramic crowns or zirconia crowns are options that provide excellent aesthetics without any metal exposure.

5. Regular Maintenance: Regardless of the solution, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Regular dental check-ups will help monitor the condition of your crowns and surrounding teeth, ensuring any issues are addressed promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, the appearance of silver on your dental crown can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed. It is essential to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action, whether that involves repairing the current crown, replacing it, or considering alternative materials. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices will help prolong the life of your dental restorations and maintain your overall oral health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Visual Disturbances: Symptoms and Solutions for Eye Issues

Hello, Doctor. I have several issues with my eyes that I would like to consult you about: 1. At night, when I look at bright lights, such as lamps or LED displays, I notice a layer that seems to float above them. For instance, with an LED display, it appears as if a line of whit...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Student Yang: 1. This is caused by astigmatism. During the day, the pupils are smaller, so it is less noticeable. 2. This is the prism effect, and there is no need to worry. Regardless of whether you have experienced this phenomenon before, it is a normal prism effect bas...

Managing Floaters: Effective Strategies for Eye Health

A few months ago, I was diagnosed with floaters and underwent a dilated eye exam at the clinic, which showed no issues. However, when reading, I am often disturbed by black spots and strands. Although the doctor mentioned that there hasn't been a significant increase, I woul...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Currently, there is no method to alleviate the symptoms.

Understanding Color Perception Issues with Photochromic Lenses

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask two questions. After class today, while walking home, I noticed something unusual. I have photochromic glasses, and as I was walking, I suddenly saw a small section of the sidewalk appear to have a faint reddish-purple tint. When I took off my g...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: This situation is usually not indicative of a disease, but rather a natural phenomenon related to optical properties, reflection, and scattering. The characteristics of light, especially in the context of different colors, can affect our perception of the color of objects....

Understanding and Managing Floaters: Expert Insights on Eye Health

Dear Dr. Gao, Thank you for your detailed response last time. I would like to ask a few more questions: 1. The branch-like floaters in my left eye seem to have darkened and thickened, with some wispy ends, and they are close to becoming web-like floaters. Is there any way to pr...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Sabina: 1. Currently, there are no methods available. 2. If you want to reduce blue light exposure, you should wear blue light blocking glasses; polarized lenses do not block blue light. 3. Vision will not improve as it is already stabilized. However, you can take care of t...