PFM vs. Zirconia Crowns and Bridges

Getting a crown or a bridge? What material should you choose? Traditional Porcelain fused to Metal (PFM) or the Zirconia?

Choosing between Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) and Zirconia crowns and bridges is a significant decision when it comes to dental restorations. Both options have their strengths and considerations, so it’s essential to understand your specific needs and preferences to make an informed choice. Below, we’ll explore the factors to consider when deciding between PFM and Zirconia restorations:

1. Aesthetic Preferences

• PFM crowns and bridges have a long history of delivering natural aesthetics. They can be customized to match the color and translucency of your natural teeth. However, in some cases, a thin black line may appear at the gumline, which can be a cosmetic concern for some patients.
• Zirconia crowns and bridges are also known for their excellent aesthetics. They offer strength and the ability to mimic natural teeth closely. If aesthetics are a top priority, Zirconia is a strong contender.

2. Location of the Restoration

• PFM restorations are highly durable and suitable for both front and back teeth. They are particularly favored for posterior teeth that endure significant biting forces.
• Zirconia crowns and bridges are known for their strength and resistance to chipping and cracking. This makes them suitable for both front and back teeth, providing versatility in placement

3. Strength and Durability

• PFM crowns and bridges are durable and can last a long time with proper care and maintenance. However, they may be more prone to porcelain chipping in cases of heavy biting forces or teeth grinding.
• Zirconia is renowned for its exceptional strength and resistance to wear. It is less likely to chip or break compared to porcelain, making it an excellent choice for individuals who grind their teeth or have a history of restoration breakage.

4. Cost Considerations

• Traditional PFM restorations are often cheaper upfront compared to Zirconia. 
• Zirconia crowns and bridges can be relatively more expensive than PFM. However, their long-term durability and esthetic advantages may justify the higher cost for some patients.

5. Allergies and Sensitivity

• PFM restorations contain a metal substructure, which can be a concern for individuals with metal allergies or sensitivities.
• Zirconia is biocompatible and has a lower risk of causing allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to metals.

6. Cosmetic Concerns

• As mentioned earlier, a thin black line may appear at the gumline over time with PFM restorations and can be a cosmetic concern for patients.
• Compared to PFM, since Zirconia is homogenous and non-metallic, no black thin lines at the gum line will develop at any point in time.  

7. Longevity and Maintenance

• With proper care and maintenance, PFM restorations can last a long time. Regular oral hygiene practices are essential to prevent decay and gum disease around the restoration.
• Zirconia crowns and bridges are known for their longevity and resistance to wear. They are easy to maintain and clean, similar to natural teeth.

8. Time Constraints

• PFM is traditionally made in a dental laboratory and takes a much longer time to fabricate. If you have very short timelines for you to have your crown or bridge, PFM may not be the right choice for you. The entire process may take at least two weeks to complete.
• Zirconia crowns and bridges are designed digitally and milled with state of the art machines at our in-house dental laboratory. We advise patients to opt for Zirconia if they are in a rush. Depending on the design and complexity of the case as well as the workload of our laboratory, Zirconia Crowns and Bridges can be made in 3-7 days.

In summary, the ideal choice will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Affinity Dental Clinics offers both PFM and Zirconia restorations to patients depending on their unique circumstances, priorities, budget, timelines and the recommendations of our dentists.

Watch actual cases of PFM and Zirconia Crowns and Bridges: Chipped Tooth: Single Unit Zirconia Crown Restoration, Porcelain Fused to Zirconia Crowns and Removable Partial Dentures

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