Is there any harm in having a porcelain-fused-to-cobalt-chromium dental crown?
Generally speaking, cobalt-chromium porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns have no significant adverse effects. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Cobalt-chromium PFM crowns are a commonly used dental restorative material. In terms of biocompatibility, they are significantly better than traditional nickel-chromium alloy PFM crowns. Cobalt-chromium alloys are relatively less irritating to the gums and generally do not cause severe gingival inflammation or allergic reactions. However, some patients may experience mild allergic reactions to certain components of the cobalt-chromium alloy, such as redness, swelling, or itching of the gums. During long-term use, the edges of the porcelain crown may irritate the gums due to wear or poor fit, potentially leading to gum recession or secondary caries.
After receiving a cobalt-chromium PFM crown, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice daily, use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between teeth, and schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to promptly identify and address any issues that may arise around the crown, such as gingivitis or tooth decay.