CEREC in North Miami Beach Serving Patients in Miami, Aventura and North Miami Beach In the past, the dental field proved by predilection that gold crowns were the best solution for full coverage and preservation of the tooth. The field of dentistry, with aesthetics in mind, developed alternative options such as natural color restorations. This was accomplished by using porcelain bonded to metal; the same technology used for bathtubs as well as kitchen sinks and other home and industrial appliances. Today, they are referred to as a “porcelain fused to metal crowns.” They are just as, if not more durable than the natural tooth structure. However, the metal base needs to be rigid to protect the weakness of the porcelain, if not the restoration may fracture.
The “classic” porcelain crown has drawbacks. For instance, the dark color of the metal is not compatible with the transparency of the porcelain. This requires that we use a coloring base to block out the metallic color and achieve the desired natural color. However, over time due to normal “wear and tear” the natural hue of the enamel deteriorates forming dark lines along the gum line creating an unappealing look.