Please note we may not offer this service. Call (940) 566-4888 to learn more.
A Stunning and Durable Smile Restoration
Are you looking for a reliable and aesthetic dental crown option? Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural beauty of porcelain, making them an excellent choice for restoring your smile. If you’re in Denton, TX, or nearby, our dental team can provide insights on PFM crowns and alternative dental crown options to suit your needs.
To schedule your consultation and learn more about PFM crowns or other crown types, contact our Denton, TX, office at (940) 566-4888.
What Are Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Dental Crowns?
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns offer a robust restoration solution by layering tooth-colored porcelain over a metal core, often made of alloys such as gold, nickel, or chromium. This structure combines the durability of metal with the visual appeal of porcelain for a functional yet attractive crown.
Benefits of Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
PFM crowns offer several benefits, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking durable, aesthetically pleasing restorations:
- Natural Appearance: The porcelain layer provides a tooth-like look, blending seamlessly with natural teeth. Customizable color options help ensure a uniform appearance.
- Strength & Resilience: The metal core reinforces the crown, enabling it to withstand daily forces of chewing and biting.
- Versatility: PFM crowns address a wide range of dental issues, including decay, cracks, and discoloration, providing both functionality and aesthetic improvement.
- Longevity: With diligent care and routine dental visits, PFM crowns can serve as a long-term solution, lasting 10-15 years or more.
- Secure Fit: The metal foundation of PFM crowns ensures a snug fit, reducing the likelihood of shifting or dislodging.
Drawbacks of Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns
While PFM crowns offer many advantages, it’s essential to consider a few potential downsides:
- Metal Edge Visibility: In some cases, especially with receding gums, the metal core may create a faint line at the gumline.
- Limited Translucency: Although close to natural teeth, PFM crowns may lack the high-level translucency seen in all-porcelain or ceramic crowns.
- Preparation Requirements: Preparing the tooth for a PFM crown involves removing a small amount of natural tooth structure to ensure a proper fit.
- Porcelain Wear: Over time, the porcelain layer can wear down, potentially affecting appearance and bite alignment.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some patients may have allergic responses to the metals in the crown’s substructure.
The Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns Dental Process
The PFM crown procedure typically spans multiple visits to ensure accuracy and a comfortable fit.
Step 1: Consultation and Evaluation
The first step on your journey to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns is a consultation with your dentist. They’ll evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine if PFM crowns are the right option for you.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
Once you and your dentist decide to proceed with PFM crowns, the tooth receiving the crown is prepared. This involves removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crown.
Step 3: Impression and Temporary Crown
An impression of your prepared tooth is taken, which serves as a blueprint for the dental lab to create your custom PFM crown. While your permanent crown is being fabricated, your dentist will place a temporary dental crown over the prepared tooth to protect it.
Step 4: Laboratory Fabrication
Skilled technicians at the dental lab use your dental impression to create a metal substructure for your crown. They then layer porcelain over the metal to achieve a natural tooth-like appearance. This process ensures both strength and aesthetics.
Step 5: Crown Placement
Once your permanent PFM dental crown is ready, you return to your dentist for the final fitting. The temporary crown is removed, and the new PFM crown is carefully placed and adjusted for a precise fit. Your dentist will check the color, shape, and bite alignment to ensure optimal comfort and aesthetics.
Step 6: Follow Up
To maximize the lifespan of your porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns and maintain a healthy smile, it’s crucial to follow essential care instructions. This includes practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as scheduling routine visits for checkups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can last many years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Their lifespan typically ranges from 10 to 15 years, although some may last longer.
In certain cases, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown can be repaired. The extent of the damage and the location of the crown will determine if repair is possible. Your dentist will assess the condition and provide the appropriate recommendation.
The average cost of a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown can vary depending on factors such as the Wasilla, complexity of the case, and the materials used. It’s best to consult with your dentist for a personalized treatment plan and an accurate cost estimate.
No, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns do not contain mercury. They consist of a metal substructure or metal base, usually made of alloys like gold, nickel, or chromium, covered with a layer of porcelain to achieve a natural tooth-like appearance. The porcelain does not contain mercury either.
Discover the Potential of Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
If you’re seeking a durable, aesthetic dental restoration, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns could be the solution for you. To learn more or explore other dental crown options, contact our Denton office at (940) 566-4888.
We proudly serve patients in Denton and nearby communities like Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX. Let us help you restore your smile with confidence!