Porcelain Fused To Metal Crowns: Getting To Know More About These

Porcelain fused to metal crowns is one of the restorative options that dentistry offers. It can help address a damaged, decayed, or even missing tooth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns (PFM)

When we talk about repairing damaged teeth, PFM crowns are exemplary. These crowns use metal interiors and porcelain exteriors. The porcelain exterior makes it look like a natural tooth. Moreover, it consists of excellent mechanical properties, aesthetic appearance and shows acceptable biological quality.

Additionally, the durability can become like that of pure metal, but a lot more esthetic. Porcelain fused to metal can be a good choice in repairing front or back teeth. Nowadays, dentists prefer ceramic or porcelain crowns more instead of PFM crowns. A few may still be using PFM crowns as an excellent option for back teeth restorations.

Types of PFM crowns

The metal type can also determine the price and quality that the crown can offer. Here are the various kinds of PFM crowns according to the metal type.

• Porcelain fused to base metal alloys: Base metals are prevalent when it comes to PFM crowns because it is cheaper. However, not all patients are suitable for this metal type because it can cause allergic reactions.
• Porcelain fused to titanium alloys: Titanium alloys contain excellent properties as the noble metals do. Additionally, dentists typically use these in implants and other dental prostheses.
• Porcelain fused to gold alloys: Gold alloys are the most excellent metal type. It offers the best properties, such as highly durable and does not cause allergy. However, it also means the higher price PFM crowns can be, given that it contains these properties.

The metal type is one of the choices you also need to decide on for this restoration option.

Advantages and disadvantages of PFM crowns

The following are why PFM crowns are still kicking in as one of the restoration options in dentistry.

• The most excellent reason why PFM crowns are still active is their durability and strength. It has been involved in the world of dentistry for 35 years already.
• Additionally, the patient will not have aesthetic concern since these crowns can look like natural teeth.
• Being extremely durable, it is the most resistant to chips and cracks. On average, it can last for about ten to 15 years.
• Manufacturers can use several materials for PFM, such as base metal alloys, titanium alloys, and gold alloys.
• Aside from being highly aesthetic like ceramic or porcelain crowns, PFM crowns are far more affordable. In effect, restoring a smile is possible even if you are with a strict budget.

On the other hand, disadvantages are also present when you choose this restoration option. In this case, you have to consider these as well before making the final decision.

• Choosing this crown type can make you lose a lot of your tooth structure. Your dentist will need to trim a large part of your tooth so that PFM crowns can fit well.
• Moreover, you can be more at risk of developing gingivitis by using PFM crowns, unlike the other crown types.
• Using PFM crowns can damage the opposing teeth. The porcelain in this crown can wear out the opposing teeth in the long run.
• Sooner or later, a grey line can become visible. For this reason, your smile will not be as excellent as before.
• Furthermore, the porcelain material included in PFM crowns can chip off.
• Additionally, if you choose precious metals as the material for PFM crowns, it can become expensive. On the other hand, you can ensure that these precious metals will guarantee better quality.

PFM crowns cost breakdown

In the United States, the price of PFM crowns can fall between $1,000 and $5,000. However, the cost can still vary depending on the type of metal you choose as material. High noble metals will mean a higher price, while base metal alloys can offer cheaper expenses.

Aside from the metal type, the price of PFM crowns can also vary due to the clinic’s location, the crown’s size, and the experience of your chosen dentist. Furthermore, it would be best to keep in mind that cheaper metal types may cause allergic reactions.

Given these points, you have to consider every factor inclined. This way, you would know which option entirely fits in you as a whole.

Final thoughts

PFMS crowns are famous, durable, and can last long. However, you still have to consult with your dentist and discuss everything you need to know about it. Your dentist will recommend several restoration options to choose from to address your oral concern.

For this reason, schedule your dental appointment first before deciding on a treatment option to restore your teeth.