6 weeks post-op. Why does my new crown’s margin sit above the gum line? (photos)

Question

For esthetic purposes, I elected to have an old pfm crown replaced with a zirconium crown about six weeks ago. There are visible margins with this new crown. I want my investment to last as long as possible. With the margins already visible, I worry about the longevity of the crown (with natural gum recession) as well as esthetics. Why is this an acceptable form of practice now? It doesn’t pass for a natural looking tooth. My old crowns were placed beneath the gum line with no issues.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

Ideally, if health and longevity is considered all crowns would be finished above the gum line.  The interface of tooth to crown is easier to keep clean and is less prone to cause gum disease or get recurrent decay when finished supra-gingival..  It also preserves healthy structure.
Sub-gingival margins compromise health in favor of esthetics.Thiis is taught in every deental school.

Yocasta Caba, DDS · Answer

Hello,
You don’t have to worry about it, that’s right position of your crown and in few weeks you gum can adapt around the crown and above the gum line you can clean it better and avoid problems in the future.  
  
Good luck.

6 weeks post-op. Why does my new crown’s margin sit above the gum line? (photos)

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