PFM Crowns and Bridges
Affordable Strength and Aesthetics for Dental Restoration
When it comes to restoring damaged or missing teeth, one of the most time-tested and widely used solutions in prosthodontics is the PFM Crown or Bridge. At Affinity Dental Clinics, we provide patients with a range of restoration options—including PFM Crowns and Bridges—to suit different clinical needs and budgets.
Known for their durability and reasonable cost, PFM restorations remain a trusted choice for many patients who want strong, functional, and esthetically acceptable dental restorations. While newer materials like zirconia offer exceptional strength and lifelike aesthetics, PFM Crowns and Bridges continue to hold their place in modern dentistry, especially for patients seeking a cost-effective alternative.
What Are PFM Crowns and Bridges?
PFM stands for Porcelain Fused to Metal. These restorations have a metal substructure for strength and durability, over which tooth-colored porcelain is layered to provide a natural appearance.
• A PFM Bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to neighboring healthy teeth with crowns connected to a pontic (false tooth).
This combination of metal strength and porcelain esthetics makes PFM crowns and bridges a practical and proven solution for many types of dental restorations.
When Are PFM Crowns and Bridges Recommended?
PFM Crowns and Bridges are commonly used in the following cases:
• To restore a tooth after root canal treatment
• To replace missing teeth with a fixed bridge
• As implant crowns or bridges for posterior teeth
• For full-mouth rehabilitation in select cases
They are especially ideal in the posterior (back) regions of the mouth where the forces of chewing are strongest and high esthetic demands are lower.
Benefits of PFM Crowns and Bridges
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns and Bridges remain a trusted choice in restorative dentistry because of their unique advantages:
PFM restorations are more affordable than all-ceramic alternatives like zirconia or porcelain crowns, making them a budget-friendly choice without sacrificing function.
The metal core provides excellent strength and fracture resistance, making PFM an ideal choice for molars and premolars exposed to heavy biting forces.
Although not as translucent as full-ceramic restorations, the porcelain layer on top of the metal allows PFMs to blend in well with natural teeth, especially in posterior areas.
PFM crowns and bridges have been trusted for decades, backed by extensive clinical evidence showing their reliability and performance over time.
What Are the Limitations of PFM Restorations?
While PFM Crowns and Bridges are still widely used, there are certain limitations patients should be aware of:
The metal substructure limits translucency compared to zirconia or e.max. Over time, gum recession may expose a dark line at the gum margin.
PFM restorations are handmade and often outsourced, requiring more time (typically 10–14 days) compared to in-house CAD/CAM zirconia crowns.
Though uncommon with proper care, the porcelain surface can chip or fracture under excessive biting force or trauma.
The PFM Restoration Process at Affinity Dental Clinics
When you receive a PFM Crown or Bridge at Affinity Dental Clinics, the process typically involves multiple steps to ensure precision, comfort, and durability:
Our prosthodontic team uses digital X-rays, Cone Beam CT scans, and clinical assessment to confirm if a PFM restoration is the right choice for your needs and budget.
The supporting teeth are reshaped to create space for the crown or bridge. Local anesthesia ensures the procedure is comfortable, with strict sterilization protocols maintained throughout.
Accurate impressions are taken and sent to our trusted partner dental laboratory. Unlike our zirconia restorations fabricated in-house, PFMs are handcrafted by specialized labs.
A temporary restoration is placed to protect your teeth and maintain function and aesthetics while the final PFM is being fabricated.
Once your custom PFM crown or bridge is ready, we carefully check its fit, bite, comfort, and color. The restoration is then permanently cemented, with minor adjustments as needed.
Caring for Your PFM Crown or Bridge
To ensure the longevity of your PFM restoration, we recommend:
• Flossing daily, especially under bridges
• Avoiding extremely hard or sticky foods
• Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
• Visiting us every 6 months for checkups and professional cleanings
Our dental hygienists are trained to clean around crowns and bridges gently and thoroughly using advanced tools like Airflow Prophylaxis, ensuring your restorations stay clean and stain-free.
Why Choose Affinity Dental Clinics?
At Affinity Dental Clinics, we are committed to delivering excellent prosthodontic care that balances function, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re considering zirconia, porcelain, or PFM Crowns and Bridges, our experienced dentists will guide you toward the best solution for your case.
What sets us apart:
• Years of Expertise in Prosthodontics
• Digital X-rays and CBCT for precision planning
• Conscious Sedation with a certified anesthesiologist (for anxious patients)
• Clinics in Makati, BGC, Alabang, Ortigas, Parañaque, and Cebu
We prioritize patient safety, long-term outcomes, and personalized care—making sure your smile feels and looks just right.
Book Your Prosthodontic Consultation Today
Need to restore a damaged or missing tooth? Looking for a functional and cost-effective option?
Discover how PFM Crowns and Bridges can help you chew, speak, and smile with confidence—without stretching your budget.
Call us today or 📩 message us to book your consultation at Affinity Dental Clinics, available in Makati, BGC, Alabang, Ortigas, Parañaque, and Cebu.
