If you’ve had a dental crown for many years—especially one made of metal—you might not have thought much about replacing it. After all, it’s still doing its job, right? But even if your metal crown seems functional, there are several good reasons to consider an upgrade. From aesthetics to comfort to overall dental health, modern dental crowns offer significant advantages. Here’s why you shouldn’t think twice about replacing your old metal crown.
Modern Crowns Look More Natural
The most obvious reason many people choose to replace metal crowns is appearance. Traditional metal crowns are highly visible, especially when placed on front or upper teeth. They often create a metallic flash when you smile, which can be distracting or make you feel self-conscious.
Today’s crowns are typically made from porcelain or ceramic materials that are color-matched to your natural teeth. These options blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile, making them practically invisible to others. Replacing a metal crown with a tooth-colored one can instantly improve your confidence and appearance.
Metal Crowns Can Cause Sensitivity or Allergies
Some patients experience discomfort due to temperature sensitivity with metal crowns. The metal conducts hot and cold, which can cause sharp pain when eating or drinking. Replacing your metal crown with a non-metal alternative may eliminate that issue entirely.
Additionally, some people have mild allergic reactions to certain metals, such as nickel. While rare, these reactions can result in gum irritation, discoloration, or discomfort. Modern porcelain crowns are biocompatible and ideal for those with metal sensitivities.
Gum Health and Aesthetic Concerns
Have you noticed a dark line at the gum line where your metal crown meets your tooth? This is a common cosmetic issue with older metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. As gums recede over time, the dark edge of the crown becomes visible, making your smile appear aged or unhealthy.
Newer all-ceramic crowns eliminate this problem because they contain no metal base. The result is a cleaner, more youthful look, even as your gum line naturally shifts with age.
Better Fit and Function
Dental technology has come a long way. Today’s crowns are made using digital impressions and advanced imaging, which means a more precise fit and better bite alignment. If your metal crown was made years ago, it may not fit as well as it once did, especially if your teeth have shifted.
A poorly fitting crown can trap food, promote plaque buildup, and lead to decay or gum issues. Replacing it ensures your mouth stays healthy and comfortable.
Peace of Mind
While metal crowns are durable, they’re not indestructible. Over time, they can wear down or develop cracks. Choosing to replace your crown proactively before problems arise can prevent unexpected pain or emergencies.
If you’re still living with an outdated metal crown, there’s no reason to hesitate. Upgrading to a modern, tooth-colored crown improves your smile, comfort, and overall oral health. Talk to your dentist about your replacement options and enjoy the benefits of a crown that looks and feels like a natural part of your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Michael O’Brien graduated dental school at the University of Las Vegas Nevada School of Dental Medicine. Afterward, he worked in Indian Health, where he was selected as the region’s clinician of the year in 2018. On top of this, Dr. O’Brien is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and has attended the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI). He is currently pursuing continuing education through both Spear Education and the KOIS Center as well. Thinking about replacing your metal crown? Schedule an appointment with our team online or call our Tulsa office at (918) 477-9000.