Q.
Hi. Two weeks ago I had my two front teeth crowned (porcelain on metal) as they were discoloured following an injury in childhood. I am very unhappy with the crowns and it is causing me a great deal of distress. They are a different shape to my previous teeth, the colour has not been matched very well with the adjacent teeth, and there is a dark line around the gum area. I have voiced my concerns and am now waiting to hear back from my dentist as to what options are available to rectify the problems. However, he has stated that this is going to take a few weeks!! My main concern now is that if he replaces them how likely is it that my original tooth stumps and gums could be damaged during the process? Also, various websites have stated that the dark line around the gum is due to the metal showing through and that all porcelain crowns eliminate this problem. In my case I was recommended the porcelain and metal due to the close bite I have with my bottom teeth and therefore more strength being required. One website has stated that to avoid the dark line the top of the crown could be finished with just porcelain instead of the metal, do you have any experience of this? At the start of my treatment I told the dentist I wanted the best possible aesthetic finish even if it meant I had to pay for the treatment (I am an NHS patient) but I feel he has gone for the cheapest option and I now wish I had paid for private treatment with another dentist. I cannot tell you how distressed I am, it is a nightmare, and any advice would be much appreciated. Many thanks.