What are Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns? 7 Facts About the PFM Crowns you Must Know

If you’re looking for a durable and aesthetically pleasing dental restoration for your patients, then porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns might be the perfect solution.

PFM crowns are an excellent option for restoring missing or damaged teeth due to decay or injury, combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain in one restoration.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 facts about PFM crowns that your patients must know before deciding. This way, you can help them make an informed choice about which type of dental restoration best suits their needs.

What is a Porcelain Fused to Metal Crown?

Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns are a type of dental restoration that combines the strength and durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, resulting in a durable, natural-looking restoration. PFM crowns can replace missing teeth or restore damaged teeth due to decay or injury. 

The main benefits of using PFM crowns include improved strength and durability compared to other dental restorations. Beyond that, they offer better biocompatibility with gums and bone structure and longer lifespan when correctly cared for.

Thanks to the porcelain layer on top, the natural look and feel is another excellent characteristic of porcelain fused to metal crowns, as well as its versatility since they can be used in many different situations depending on your needs.

PFM crowns are more cost-effective than other options, such as all ceramic or gold ones. Finally, they come in various shades and shapes sizes, so you’re sure to find one that best suits your patient’s needs.

Check Keating's Noritake Ex-3 Porcelain Fused To Metal Crowns.

7 Facts About PFM Crowns You Must Know

If you’re looking for a durable and aesthetically pleasing dental restoration, then porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns might be the perfect solution. PFM crowns are an excellent option for restoring missing or damaged teeth due to decay or injury, combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain in one restoration.

Here are 7 facts about PFM crowns that you must know before making your decision: 

Fact 1: Strength & Durability

One of the main benefits of using PFM crowns is their superior strength and durability compared to other dental restorations. The combination of metal and porcelain makes them strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear while maintaining a natural look and feel.  

Fact 2: Biocompatibility with Gums & Bone Structure

Another advantage of PFM among the options of crowns and bridges is their biocompatibility with gums and bone structure around them. This means they can help promote healthy gum tissue growth and reduce inflammation caused by bacteria buildup in hard-to-reach areas around your teeth where regular brushing may not reach easily.  

Learn more about PFM crowns by watching our video: Removal of Anterior PFM Crowns Chair Side Procedure.

Fact 3: Longevity With Proper Care & Maintenance

PFM crowns can last up to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance! To ensure maximum longevity from your investment, you must practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, visiting your dentist every 6 months for checkups/cleanings, avoiding sugary snacks/drinks, etc.

Fact 4: Aesthetics - Natural Look And Feel

Thanks to its porcelain layer on top, PFMs offer a very natural look that helps blend seamlessly into surrounding teeth. In addition, these materials have been designed, so they don't discolor over time, unlike some other types of restorations. As such, PFMs provide patients with an aesthetic result without compromising durability. 

Fact 5: Versatility, Can Be Used In Many Different Situations

Besides replacing missing teeth or restoring damaged ones due to decay/injury, PFMs can also be used when creating bridges, dentures, or veneers. Furthermore, since many shades are available today, dentists can easily customize color matches based on patient needs.

Fact 6: Cost-Effective Option Compared To Other Types Of Dental Restorations

When compared against all ceramic options like eMax Crownes or gold ones like gold foil inlays/overlays, PFMs tend to be much more cost-effective yet still provide comparable results regarding performance levels factoring strength/durability combined with aesthetically pleasing looks too!

Fact 7: Available In A Variety Of Shades, Shapes, And Sizes

Last but not least, PFM Crowns come in various shades, shapes, and sizes, meaning no matter what type of smile makeover needs doing, the chance is high that the right product is out there somewhere, just waiting to be discovered!

If you are considering getting Porcelain Fused Metal Crowns installed soon, I hope this article helped shed light on what it entails overall—allowing informed decisions to be made moving forward journey toward the beautiful smile you ever wanted!

Learn more with Keating's specialists at Porcelain Fused To Metal Crown And Bridge (Chair Side Tips) With Dr. Hornbrook!

To read full research on PFM and Zirconia alternatives, check this article.

Final Thouthgs

In conclusion, PFM crowns are a great option for restoring missing or damaged teeth due to decay or injury. They combine the strength and durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain in one restoration, providing superior strength and longevity compared to other types of dental restorations.

Additionally, they’re biocompatible with gums and bone structure around them, have a natural look and feel thanks to their porcelain layer on top, are versatile enough to be used in many different situations depending on your needs, cost-effective compared to other options such as all ceramic crowns or gold ones. Lastly they come in a variety shades shapes sizes so you’re sure find one that best suits your needs. 

If you have any questions about PFM crowns or would like more information about this type of dental restoration before making your decision then please don’t hesitate to reach out! Our team at Keating is always happy to help answer any questions you may have regarding these types of treatments, ensuring you get always the best for your patients!