Porcelain-fused-to-metal Crown 

 

Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns (PFMs) have a metal shell on which is fused a veneer of porcelain in a high heat oven. The metal provides strong compression and tensile strength, and the porcelain gives the crown a white tooth-like appearance, suitable for front teeth restorations. These crowns are often made with a partial veneer that covers only the aspects of the crown that are visible. The remaining surfaces of the crown are bare metal. A variety of metal alloys containing precious metals and base metals can be used. The porcelain can be color matched to the adjacent teeth or gingivae.

 

Advantage of PFM:

 

• The major advantage of PFM crown is its metal substructure that provides adequate strength.

 

Disadvantage of PFM:

 

• PFM crown requires removal of 1.5 mm of buccal tooth substance to place the porcelain and metal layers. It lacks esthetic look due to its opaque metal layer. An e-max or a zirconium crown can be a best option when one is looking for an aesthetic appearing tooth crown.