What Is A PFM Crown?

There are several types of dental materials available today for each modality. For instance there are all-metal crowns, all-ceramic crowns, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns. Certain materials may be good for one treatment but not another. Dental materials are often chosen according to the location of the treatment, material strength, esthetics, and durability.  When deciding upon a procedure your dentist will discuss material options, and together you will decide which is best for you. Today we discuss PFM crowns.

PFM Crowns

Dental crowns are basically a shell that fits over your tooth to protect it and restore it to full function. The dental crown fully encases the damaged or decayed tooth and is the same size and shape as the tooth was before crown preparation. A porcelain-fused-to-metal crown consists of a metal shell for strength with a porcelain veneer fused over it for esthetics. It is a hybrid of an all-metal crown and a porcelain crown, supplying the advantages of both. All-metal crowns are the strongest and most durable, but because they are metal they do not blend with the surrounding dentition and, therefore, are unpalatable to the eye. All-ceramic crowns (commonly made of porcelain) mimic the color, opalescence, translucency of natural dentition so blend nicely, making them esthetically pleasing.

All Materials Have Their Advantages

The advantages of PFM crowns include stability, strength, and longevity provided by the all-metal base. They meet the need for esthetics due to the porcelain overlay.

PFM crowns, however, can be costly, they can cause gingival inflammation, they have been known to wear down adjacent teeth, the porcelain is prone to chipping and cracking, and they require the removal of a large part of the original tooth structure.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.