Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) dental crowns & bridges
PFM crowns, also known as porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, are dental restorations that combine the strength of a metal substructure with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, providing both durability and natural-looking appearance. The porcelain covers the entire metal core, leaving no metal exposed, or a metal collar visible around the base. The metal core is fabricated from a variety of metals, chosen for their strength and/or biocompatible properties. PFM crowns require less retraction and smaller margins, making them an ideal choice for when there is minimal occlusal space.
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When to use porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
With the rise of zirconia since the early 2000’s, zirconia restorations are taking over the majority of the common indications for which PFMs would traditionally be used. However, PFM is still the preferred choice for restorative cases where there is minimal occlusal space, long or short VDO bridges, or when there is minimal distance for implants.
- Zirconia crowns
- eMax crowns
- Metal crowns
PFM crown FAQ
We currently offer the following 3 options for PFM Gold units: PFM Gold – High Noble – Yellow (41%), PFM Gold – High Noble – Rich Yellow (88%), and PFM White – High Noble (60%). View more details and information on our PFM crowns here.
Yes, dentists can choose the type of collar at the gingival part of the PFM crown:
- Porcelain Butt Margin: Porcelain is layered up until the base of the crown.
- Metal Collar: Visible metal band that can be 180 or 360 degrees
- Junction: Porcelain is layered up until the margin. There is a thin metal collar that is subgingival and not visible
Due to the composition of PFM crowns, where the ceramic layer is so thin, reduction for PFM crowns is different than other restorative materials, with incisal or occlusal features, axial walls, and the shoulder needing 0.4 mm of reduction when using a shoulder or chamfer margin.
PFM stands for porcelain fused to metal and details a type of crown material that’s been used in restorations since the 1950’s. Porcelain covers the entire metal core, leaving no metal exposed, or a metal collar visible around the base. The metal core is fabricated from a variety of metals, chosen for their strength and/or biocompatible properties.
Ready to use Dandy as your new PFM crown and bridge lab?
Talk to our team about your practice getting started with Dandy. We’ll answer your questions and tell you about our digital dental services.
Take some time to learn more about taking your practice digital with the nations first and only digital dental lab.