What type of dental crown would you recommend for a person that plays sports?

Question

My 14 old was hit in the mouth and his front tooth was traumatized. He had to get a root canal and the dentist said he will need a crown. He is a basketball player and I'm concerned about which type of crown would be best. Right now I am planning to get him an all porceline crown. I'm struggling with this. I don't want his tooth to look fake or get a silver line at his gum line.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

There are many durable materials on the market, and your concern for the grey metal margin exists.  Insist on NOT getting a PFM, where the metal may show (now or as he ages).  At his age, he will likely need more than just this one in his lifetime.  He will also need a mouth guard, as the root of the tooth is weaker from the root canal and may fracture from an elbow when he is in the key.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

The answer is any crown will do but get a mouthguard to wear to protect that crown and the other teeth.  Protection is key!It is possible to make a sports orthotic to increase speed, strength balance etc.  I would Rx seeing a Neuromuscular Dentist for the best performance mouthguards but Underarmor also makes low tech performance mouth guards.The Pure Power Mouthguard is no longer available but a trained Neuromuscular Dentist can make you one that meets the same criteria.

What type of dental crown would you recommend for a person that plays sports?

Answers (2)