I got six crowns on my upper front teeth in 2020. Within the past 8 months, my gums have been peeling and bleeding between the front two teeth. I wondered if it was a metal allergy, so I searched online and found a forum about dental allergies. One person suggested asking for a certificate of the alloys used in the crowns. I called the dental office, and they emailed me a paper that says the crowns are GC LiSi Impress. The email stated that the crowns are not metal, so they don’t have an alloy certificate. Could I be allergic to CG LiSi Impress? My anxiety is increasing. I’m unsure if I can take a series of dental appointments to get new crowns. Thank you. Dahlia
Dahlia,
Based on your description, we assume you are referring to GC Initial® LiSi Press crowns. If all six crowns are the same material, it’s unlikely that your gums are peeling and bleeding due to an allergic reaction. Otherwise, all six crowns would provoke symptoms. And if you’ve had the crowns for four years but have had symptoms for the last eight months. Something else is probably causing the bleeding.
What Is GC Initial® LiSi Press?
GC Initial® LiSi Press is a high-strength lithium disilicate with beautiful aesthetics for dental restorations, including ceramic crowns. The GC Corporation manufactures products for dentists and dental technicians. Although we have not heard of an allergic reaction to the material, rare cases of a reaction may occur. However, as mentioned earlier, you would experience inflammation around all your dental crowns if you were allergic. A dentist cannot provide an alloy certificate for the crowns because they are metal-free.
What Can Cause Bleeding Between Dental Crowns?
You may experience bleeding between dental crowns if food particles or bacteria from food get trapped between them. Sometimes, a margin with an overhand or something that prevents you from flossing thoroughly is the problem. We recommend flossing between the crowns, paying attention to whether the floss catches on something (likely a ledge) between the crowns. This is a concern that your dentist can correct.
If your dentist cannot identify what’s causing your gums to peel and bleed, get a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. Explain your anxiety, and if you need dental care, your new dentist can provide an appropriate level of sedation. You can get allergy testing if you want definite verification of your allergies and sensitivities.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.
