PFM vs Zirconia Crowns and Bridges
PFM vs Zirconia? Choosing the right dental restoration can feel overwhelming. Two of the most popular solutions today are Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) and Zirconia crowns and bridges. Both aim to restore your smile, but they differ in strength, aesthetics, and long-term value.
At Affinity Dental Clinics, we work with both options—but our expertise and in-house digital laboratory give zirconia restorations a clear advantage in terms of precision, speed, and natural results. Let’s explore what suits you best, PFM vs Zirconia.
Appearance and Placement
PFM crowns and bridges have a metal core layered with porcelain. They’ve been trusted for decades and remain strong enough for back teeth that handle heavy chewing forces. With proper shade matching, they can look natural—but sometimes the underlying metal shows over time.
Zirconia bridges, on the other hand, are prized for their beauty. Their natural translucency closely mimics real enamel, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. They blend in seamlessly with your smile, and because they are metal-free, they age more gracefully.
Strength & Durability
PFM restorations are strong but the porcelain layer can chip with wear or teeth grinding. They’ve stood the test of time but may need repair or replacement after years of use.
Zirconia is in a different league. Milled from a solid ceramic block, it resists chipping, cracking, and daily wear. For patients who want a long-lasting solution, zirconia crowns and bridges offer both resilience and peace of mind.
Cost Considerations
PFM bridges and crowns generally come with a lower upfront cost. However, their shorter lifespan and maintenance needs may add up over time.
Zirconia restorations cost more initially but often prove more economical in the long run. Their strength, durability, and superior aesthetics reduce the need for frequent replacements.
Allergies & Sensitivities
PFM crowns contain a metal substructure. While generally safe, they can cause issues for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
Zirconia is 100% metal-free and biocompatible. This makes it an excellent choice for patients who prefer restorations that are safe for the body and gentle on the gums.
Aesthetic Longevity
One of the main drawbacks of PFMs is the gray line that may appear near the gumline over time, especially as gums recede.
Zirconia avoids this problem entirely. Its all-ceramic structure ensures a consistent, tooth-like color from every angle—even many years after placement.
Longevity & Maintenance
With good oral hygiene, PFMs can serve well for years, potentially a decade or more.
Zirconia stands out with exceptional durability. It’s easy to maintain—cleaning and caring for zirconia felt like caring for natural teeth.
PFM vs Zirconia? Zirconia wins in terms of long lasting durability and maintenance.
Fast, Precise Results with Our In-House Lab
This is where Affinity Dental Clinics truly stands out. Unlike clinics that outsource restorations, we design and fabricate zirconia crowns and bridges in our own in-house digital dental laboratory.
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- Accuracy – Digital scans and CAD/CAM design ensure an exact fit tailored to your bite.
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- Speed – Because we don’t rely on external labs, many cases are completed in just days, not weeks.
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- Quality control – Every restoration is made under one roof, closely monitored by our dentists and technicians.
Our advanced Roland Milling Machine mills zirconia restorations with remarkable precision. Patients benefit from fewer appointments, shorter waiting times, and crowns or bridges that fit right the first time.
Which One Is Best for You?
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- Choose PFM if you want a time-tested, cost-conscious option.
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- Choose Zirconia if you want the best balance of strength, comfort, and natural beauty.
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- Choose Zirconia if you want faster results and higher quality control—thanks to our in-house lab.
At Affinity Dental Clinics, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our dentists carefully evaluate each case to recommend the best treatment for your health, lifestyle, and goals.
Quick FAQ
1. How long do zirconia crowns and bridges last?
With proper care, they can last 15 years or more—often longer than PFM restorations.
2. Do zirconia bridges look natural?
Yes. Their tooth-like translucency makes them nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth.
3. Are zirconia crowns more expensive?
They cost more upfront than PFMs, but their durability and aesthetics make them a smart long-term investment.
4. Is the process painful?
No. Local anesthesia is used for tooth preparation, and most patients report little to no discomfort during or after the procedure.
Final Thoughts
PFM crowns and bridges have earned their reputation as reliable restorations. PFM vs Zirconia? When you combine advanced aesthetics, biocompatibility, and precision engineering, zirconia restorations take dentistry to the next level.
At Affinity Dental Clinics, our in-house dental laboratory gives us the ability to deliver zirconia crowns and bridges faster, more accurately, and with uncompromising quality. The result? A restoration that doesn’t just replace a tooth—it restores your confidence.
👉 Ready to explore your options? Book a consultation today and discover how zirconia crowns and bridges can transform your smile.
📍 Visit us in Makati, BGC Stopover, BGC High Street, Alabang, Ortigas, Parañaque, or Cebu
