Have you ever noticed a black line around the edge of a tooth that has a dental crown? If so, you may be concerned that this is a new cavity or that something is wrong with your tooth or the crown. Anytime you notice something new or different in your mouth you should consult with your dentist to determine what may have caused the change. Often a black line around a crown is nothing to be concerned with. An older method for making dental crowns used a layer of metal that fit over your tooth and was covered with tooth-colored porcelain.
The porcelain was tapered down close to the edge of the metal underneath, but did not cover it completely. Originally the point at which the crown and your tooth met was placed under the edge of your gum tissue to hide this thin band of metal. Over time as you have aged and your gum tissue has receded the thin band of metal may have become visible. Today most dental crowns can be made without this thin band of metal so that they stay beautiful over time.
If you have any questions or concerns about your own teeth or gums, let us know. We can tell you if the black line you see is simply the band of metal, and rule out any other issue or cavity that would need attention.
