PFM or Zirconia?
PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal)
- Have been used successfully over the past 60 years, they are very reliable
- There are different dental alloys used to create PFMs
- Non-precious
- Semi-precious
- High Noble
- They are known to last for 30 years
- They are incredibly strong, however, it is time consuming to create an esthetically pleasing crown or bridge due to the metal structure and multiple manufacturing steps required
- The margins of PFMs may also be an issue as it can become exposed over time as gum tissue recedes
Zirconia
- Zirconia offers a more esthetically pleasing solution while also providing high strength
- The margins are extremely accurate, and gum recession will not affect esthetics
- Can create the most life-like restorations
- Very compatible for patients with allergies to certain metals that can be found in PFMs
- Resistant to hot and cold temperatures
- Strength of 900-1200 Mpa