Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

PFM crowns are indirect restorations used to cover teeth. Their metal core supplies strength and durability, while the porcelain exterior provides a tooth-coloured surface.

The tooth is reshaped and an impression is made at the first crown visit. A temporary crown is cemented over the prepared tooth before you leave.

PFM crowns can chip at the porcelain veneer. A review reported 2.6% veneer chipping within five years, while fracture failure was reported for 0.2% of PFM crowns over an average 13 service-years.

One study reported a 97% ten-year survival rate for metal-ceramic crowns. Wear, trauma and oral disease can still lead to failure or repair needs.

Crown treatment usually takes two visits. The first reshapes the tooth and takes an impression; the second removes the temporary crown and cements the permanent PFM crown.

The permanent crown is commonly ready about two weeks after tooth preparation. During that time, the temporary crown protects the reshaped tooth.

All-ceramic crowns are an alternative to PFM crowns. A white filling may rebuild some teeth, while a porcelain veneer may suit a front tooth where the bite is not heavy.

Preparation and impressions happen at the first appointment, followed by a temporary crown. The finished PFM crown is cemented after laboratory fabrication.

PFM crown treatment has a laboratory stage between preparation and final cementing. A temporary crown protects the tooth while the permanent crown is made.