Metal crowns with a coating of porcelain are known as porcelain fused to metal crowns (PFM crowns). The porcelain component provides ideal aesthetic benefits by allowing the crown to mix nicely with natural tooth colour. This makes them nearly as durable as all-metal crowns, but far more aesthetically pleasing.

• -Teeth that are cracked or chipped.



• -Teeth that have been worn down.



• -Supporting a weak tooth following a root canal procedure.



• -Used as a bridge in especially toothless areas with up to two missing teeth.



• -Teeth that have decayed.

The dentist will begin by removing any decaying tissue from the patient’s tooth. Local anaesthesia is applied so the patient does not feel any pain. The dentist may need to rebuild the tooth in different areas depending on the level of tissue removed. During this procedure, the dentist will shape the tooth to make it suitable for a PFM crown. Following the preparation of the tooth, a dental impression will be obtained and submitted to a dental lab.

The metal base of the PFM can be created using CAD/CAM technology or by a dental technician in a dental lab. Until the preparation of the customised crown, a temporary crown could be placed. Once the metal base is complete, dental technicians will begin the porcelain application process, which will be done by hand. Porcelain fused to metal crowns can be made in as little as four days.

• -They resemble natural teeth. The porcelain on the outside of the crown provides visually pleasing results. This is achieved by matching the porcelain to the colour of the surrounding teeth.



• -Even though all-ceramic crowns are more aesthetically pleasing, PFM crowns are still used. This is mainly because PFM is strong and long-lasting.



• -They have a very high long-term success rate.



• -More cost-effective than other aesthetic alternatives.

• -Gingivitis is more likely with PFM crowns than with other crown types.



• -For front teeth, there are more aesthetic possibilities.



• -Extra tooth tissue is required to be removed with PFM.



• -MBiting down on especially hard foods may cause the porcelain from the PFM to chip.



• -In the long run, porcelain may wear out the opposing teeth.