Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Dental Crowns in Centuria, WI
Please note we may not offer this service. Call (715) 646-2161 to learn more.
A Stunning and Durable Smile Restoration
If you’re looking for a dental restoration that blends strength with aesthetics, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns might be your answer. Our dentist in Centuria, WI is ready to provide you with detailed insights about dental crowns.
To book your appointment and discover more about porcelain fused to metal crowns, or explore other dental crown options, contact our Centuria, WI dentist today at (715) 646-2161.
What Are Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Dental Crowns?
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) Dental crowns are a favored restoration option that merges the robustness of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. These crowns feature a metal substructure, often crafted from alloys like gold, nickel, or chromium, topped with a layer of tooth-colored porcelain.
Benefits of Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
These distinctive dental crowns offer a variety of benefits, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking dental restoration:
- Aesthetic Appeal: The porcelain coating of PFM crowns replicates the look of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile. The porcelain shade can be tailored to match your surrounding teeth.
- Strength and Durability: The metal substructure delivers outstanding strength and durability to endure the pressures of biting and chewing.
- Versatility: PFM Crowns can address a host of dental issues, including tooth decay, cracks, fractures, and discoloration.
- Longevity: With diligent oral hygiene and regular dental visits, these dental crowns can last for many years, offering a durable solution for dental restoration.
- Stability and Fit: The metal substructure guarantees a stable fit, minimizing the risk of the crown becoming dislodged or shifting.
Drawbacks of Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns
As with any dental procedure, PFM crowns have some drawbacks to consider. Being aware of these potential limitations will help you make an informed choice about your dental restoration options:
- Metal Visibility: Despite the porcelain covering, the metal substructure of PFM crowns can sometimes create a dark line at the gumline. This metal visibility might be more prominent in individuals with thin or receding gums.
- Aesthetics: While PFM crowns offer a natural appearance, they might not reach the same level of translucency and light reflection as all ceramic or all-porcelain crowns.
- Tooth Preparation: Preparing the tooth for a PFM crown involves removing a portion of the natural tooth structure.
- Potential for Wear: Over time, the porcelain part of PFM crowns may wear down, leading to a slightly reduced appearance or changes in bite alignment.
- Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, some individuals might experience allergic reactions to the metals used in the substructure of PFM crowns.
The Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns Dental Process
This dental crown procedure typically requires multiple dental visits.
Consultation and Evaluation
Your journey to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns begins with a consultation with your dentist. They will assess your oral health, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine if PFM crowns are suitable for you.
Tooth Preparation
Once you and your dentist decide to move forward with PFM crowns, the tooth receiving the crown is prepared. This involves removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the crown.
Impression and Temporary Crown
An impression of your prepared tooth is taken, serving as a template for the dental lab to craft your custom PFM crown. While your permanent crown is being made, your dentist will place a temporary dental crown over the prepared tooth to protect it.
Laboratory Fabrication
Skilled technicians at the dental lab use your dental impression to construct a metal substructure for your crown. They then layer porcelain over the metal to achieve a natural tooth-like appearance. This process ensures both strength and aesthetics.
Crown Placement
When your permanent PFM dental crown is ready, you return to your dentist for the final fitting. The temporary crown is removed, and the new PFM crown is carefully placed and adjusted for a precise fit. Your dentist will check the color, shape, and bite alignment to ensure optimal comfort and aesthetics.
Follow Up
To extend the lifespan of your porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns and maintain a healthy smile, it’s essential to follow proper care instructions. This includes practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, along with scheduling routine checkups.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can last many years. Their lifespan typically ranges from 10 to 15 years, though some may last longer.
In certain situations, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown can be repaired. The extent of the damage and the crown’s location will determine if repair is feasible. Your dentist will evaluate the condition and provide the appropriate recommendation.
The average cost of a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown can vary based on factors like location, case complexity, and materials used. It’s advisable to consult with your dentist for a personalized treatment plan and an accurate cost estimate.
No, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns do not contain mercury. They consist of a metal substructure or metal base, usually made of alloys like gold, nickel, or chromium, covered with a layer of porcelain to achieve a natural tooth-like appearance. The porcelain does not contain mercury either.