PFM Crown - Porcelain Fused to Metal Dental Crown
Product Overview
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) crown designed for dental restoration applications with chrome cobalt base and ceramic powder overlay for restoring die preparations or pontics.
Definition & Applications
PFM refers to a bilayer restorative system where dental porcelain is fused to a cast metal alloy substructure. It remains indicated for full-coverage crowns, fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) of 3-4 units, and cases requiring significant occlusal load distribution (e.g., bruxers, shortened dental arch). It is also useful when subgingival margin placement is feasible to mask the metal collar.
Key Features
- Strong & Long-lasting: Resists biting forces, suitable for back teeth (molars/premolars)
- Aesthetic (Moderate): Better than full metal crowns; color-matched to adjacent teeth
- Biocompatible: Generally well-tolerated but may cause allergies (e.g., nickel) in rare cases
- Cost-effective: More affordable than all-ceramic or zirconia crowns
Clinical Indications
- Single or multiple tooth restorations (crowns or bridges)
- Teeth with large cavities, fractures, or after root canal treatment
Material Composition
Base Material
Chrome cobalt
Overlay Material
Ceramic powder
A PFM crown consists of a metal alloy substructure covered by layers of porcelain. The metal provides strength and durability, while the fused porcelain mimics the color, translucency, and texture of natural teeth.