When an individual needs a tooth restoration, a cosmetic may recommend that they get a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown (also known as a PFM crown). A porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is constructed out of a metal core that is surrounded by a layer of baked porcelain fused to the metal.
Any number of reasons exists why a dentist may recommend a PFM crown. One reason may be a need to repair a previously filled tooth that has lost its dental filling. This tooth will require repair, and a crown is an excellent way to save the tooth, protect it from future decay, and restore its full functionality.
A tooth can also be damaged by grinding and clenching. A PFM crown is a great way of restoring its damaged and worn surface areas.
Yet again, a tooth can be severely damaged by severe cracks and fractures. Many times these breaks are so severe that some dentists would assume the tooth is unsalvageable and recommend a tooth extraction. Instead, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown can be placed over even a severely broken tooth and be made to function as if it were new.
Getting fitted with a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown always takes a patient more than one trip to the dentist because it involves a number of preparatory steps and the assistance of a special dental laboratory dedicated to the custom manufacture of various cosmetic dental restorations, including dental crowns. Most of the time, if all goes as planned; a patient will be fitted with a crown in two appointments.
The first appointment focuses on preparation. The dentist begins by numbing the area that surrounds the tooth. The dentist also places a rubber dam in the back of the mouth to protect the throat from dental debris. Next, he or she uses a dental handpiece to remove any decay away from the tooth and shapes it at the same time into a surface that will effectively wear the crown.
Once this process is completed an impression of the teeth is made. Using this impression, the dentist will make a model of the teeth. This model is then sent to the dental lab. Before sending the patient home, the dentist completes the first visit by fitting the patient with a temporary crown that will protect the tooth during the interim between office visits.
Once the lab receives the model, it uses the replicas of the teeth to make a PFM crown that is precision-suited to match the tooth in need of restoration. When the restoration arrives back at our office, the patient is called back for another next appointment.
Patients can expect several benefits from a PFM crown. For one thing, it will cover and protect the tooth. This is the most important benefit gained from any type of dental crown, be it gold, porcelain, or PFM. Additional benefits to be expected are as follows:
-A durable and sustainable cosmetic tooth enhancement
-An inner metal core that will buffers the crown against heavy biting surfaces and pressures
-An outer porcelain layer that looks almost identical to the color of natural tooth enamel
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