An increasing number of patients are requesting the use of zirconia as an alternative to porcelain fused metal (PFM) restorations. Zirconia is gradually becoming the first choice for crowns and restorations due to the excellent aesthetics and strength of zirconia crowns and bridges.
What is PFM？
Porcelain fused to metal crowns, also known simply as PFM crowns, is fabricated with a metal-alloy interior and a porcelain exterior. This allows them to have the strength of metal crowns combined with the aesthetics of porcelain crowns.
Why Use Zirconia Over PFM?
●Excellent strength
Zirconia offers superior strength and durability, three times that of PFM restorations. This strength provides assurance that zirconia restorations can withstand extreme chewing and abrasion. And can withstand some harsh oral environments.
●Natural and Real
Zirconia crowns contain no metal in the gums. PFM crowns have a metal layer below the porcelain layer on top of the crown. This metal lining is usually visible at the gums. Zirconia crowns do not have this problem. Allows patients to laugh and not be embarrassed by the exposed metal lining. Additionally, zirconia crowns can be manipulated to fit any size or shape to match the rest of the patient's teeth.
●Durability and Safety
The chemical and physical properties of zirconia make it more durable than PFM, and if properly maintained, zirconia restorations can last a lifetime. The high biocompatibility of zirconia will not cause allergies in patients. This high biocompatibility makes zirconia extremely safe for oral clinical use.
References:
https://blog.ddslab.com/zirconia-dental-crowns-instead-of-pfm
https://pashadental.com/resource/what-is-a-porcelain-fused-to-metal-crown/
