As you are probably aware, crowns are the most common version of tooth restoration used nowadays. If there has been damage to teeth, but they can still be saved. Comparatively, crowns are fairly inexpensive way to reinforce the strength and resistance of your teeth as well as restoring its natural look. If you have been told by your local dentist that crowns may be the best option for saving your teeth and smile, then you will probably be curious as to the different options out there and why you should consider what are known as PFM or Porcelain-to-metal crowns.
There are three specific types of crowns available nowadays, based on the materials used in them. These are: Metal, Porcelain and Porcelain-to-metal. While metallic and porcelain crowns are the more traditional forms, porcelain-to-metal is a newer type of crown and offers some great advantages to the other two.
It is fair to say that both porcelain and metal crowns have their own distinct advantages. However, as porcelain-to-metal include both materials, they actually benefit from many of the great benefits that these two types of materials usually offer separately.
What Are PFM or Porcelain to Metal Crowns Made Of?
PFMs feature a shell base that is made from a metal alloy especially developed to be used in dentistry. The shell covers the tooth and provides it with stability. The metal then has a cover of porcelain fused to it. This porcelain cover is molded into the shape of the missing tooth. It is during this process that crowns consisting of PFM get the majority of their advantages.
Almost As Strong As The Real Thing
Although metal and porcelain crowns are in now way weak or flimsy, PFM crowns benefit from having a base made from a metallic alloy. That makes them almost as strong as the real thing. Because they are so strong, it means that you would not have to impose the same restrictions that you might on the food you eat if you had just porcelain or metal crowns.
They Are Incredibly Stable
The base of PFM crowns is incredibly stable and because it is fused to the cover, there is less movement. This is particularly appealing if you have had crowns and dental work in the past and are used to crowns and other things becoming loose over time and after constant usage.
They Are Aesthetically Appealing
While it is true that metallic crowns are a stronger than porcelain, they certainly don’t look as nice. Therefore, because PFMs are a combination of a strong metallic base with an attractive, life-like covering of porcelain, they are also lot more pleasant on the eyes. After a few days of adjustment they will also not only look like normal teeth, but they will start to feel like ordinary teeth.
They Are Long-lasting
As both components of PFM crowns are very robust, it is possible for them to last a long period of time. Obviously, this is very much dependent on whether or not you follow the instructions laid out by your dentist. With the right care and maintenance, there is no real reason why your PFMs should not last a lifetime.
If the above has encouraged you to consider your options for porcelain-to-metal crowns and live in London or the surrounding areas, you should think about having the procedure at Estetica Dental Lab.
Not only do they have many years of relevant experience, the appropriate credentials and qualifications, but they also have at their disposal, some of the most cutting edge and modern pieces of dental equipment and use the most up to date dentistry techniques.