What is the difference between zirconia crowns and PFM crowns?

One of the most important solutions for maintaining the health and beauty of teeth is to restore or replace damaged or missing teeth. Dental crowns act as a covering for damaged teeth, restoring their natural appearance and proper function. Two of the most common types of dental crowns are PFM and zirconia.

According to glidewelldental.com, approximately 81% of prescriptions are for zirconia crowns, while 7% are for PFM crowns.

The most fundamental difference between PFM crowns and zirconia crowns is that PFM crowns are made from a combination of metal and ceramic, whereas zirconia crowns are made entirely from high-quality ceramic.

Each of these crowns has its own advantages and specific applications, and choosing the most suitable type depends on various factors such as the condition of the tooth, budget, and personal preference. In this article, we will examine the differences between zirconia and PFM crowns.

 

What is a Zirconia Crown?

Today, one of the most advanced and aesthetically pleasing methods for restoring teeth is using zirconia crowns. Due to their ceramic and metal-free structure, these crowns have a completely natural appearance, closely resembling natural teeth.

Zirconia crowns are made of zirconium oxide and, thanks to their full compatibility with body tissues, they are among the best options for dental restorations.

Not only do these crowns offer a completely natural and beautiful appearance, but their ceramic structure ensures they do not produce any unpleasant odors or cause allergies. Zirconia crowns act as thermal insulators and are an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive teeth. Moreover, for those allergic to metals, zirconia serves as an ideal alternative.

These crowns, due to their high durability and resistance to wear, have a longer lifespan compared to other crowns, making them a valuable investment for maintaining dental health and aesthetics.

 

What is a PFM Dental Crown?

PFM crowns, or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, are one of the most common and well-known types of dental crowns. PFM crowns consist of two main layers. The inner metal layer serves as the skeleton and base of the crown, providing the necessary strength and resistance against chewing forces.

This inner core is made of metals such as gold, nickel-chromium, or cobalt-chromium, which give the crown exceptional strength and durability. The outer ceramic layer is placed on top of the metal layer and integrates seamlessly with it.

 

 

The ceramic layer gives the crown a beautiful and natural appearance, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. This unique combination has made PFM crowns an excellent choice for dental restorations in terms of both strength and durability as well as aesthetics.

 

What are the differences between Zirconia Crowns and PFM Crowns?

Zirconia crowns and PFM crowns are two of the best types of dental crowns, each with its own unique features and applications. Below, we will examine the differences between these two crowns from various aspects:

 

Material Composition and Structure

• Zirconia crowns are made of zirconium oxide, a highly durable and biocompatible ceramic material, with a seamless and metal-free structure.
• PFM crowns consist of two layers: an inner metal layer and an outer ceramic layer. The metal core provides strength to the crown, while the ceramic layer gives it a natural appearance.

 

Appearance and Aesthetics

• Zirconia crowns offer a highly natural look due to their all-ceramic structure and high translucency. They allow light to pass through, creating a beautiful and attractive smile.
• PFM crowns are aesthetically pleasing but may, in some cases, show a dark line between the crown and the gumline due to the underlying metal layer.

 

Strength and Durability

• Zirconia crowns are highly resistant to wear and fractures, making them an excellent choice for restoring teeth under heavy chewing pressure.
• PFM crowns are strong, but minor cracks may form in the ceramic layer over time due to the thermal expansion differences between the metal and ceramic layers.

 

Compatibility with Gum Tissue

• Zirconia crowns have excellent compatibility with gum tissue, causing minimal gum inflammation and sensitivity. They are also less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
• The metal layer in PFM crowns may irritate the gums in some individuals and cause allergic reactions.

 

Sensitivity to Heat and Cold

• Zirconia crowns act as excellent thermal insulators, protecting teeth from temperature changes, making them a suitable choice for individuals with sensitive teeth.
• PFM crowns, due to their metal layer, may cause more sensitivity to temperature fluctuations.

 

 

Cost

• Zirconia crowns involve complex manufacturing technology and high-quality raw materials, making them more expensive than PFM crowns.
• PFM crowns have a simpler structure and use more affordable materials, resulting in lower costs.

 

Longevity

• Zirconia crowns have an exceptionally long lifespan and, with proper care, can last up to 20 years.
• PFM crowns also offer good longevity of around 10 years but may require replacement or repairs over time.

 

Tooth Preparation

• Installing zirconia crowns requires removing a larger portion of the tooth surface.
• PFM crowns require less tooth reduction due to their metal layer.

 

Applications

• Zirconia crowns are suitable for restoring front teeth and teeth under heavy chewing pressure, such as molars.
• PFM crowns are better suited for restoring back teeth where aesthetics are less of a concern.

 

Color Durability

• The color of zirconia crowns does not change over time, maintaining their white and glossy appearance.
• Over time, the ceramic layer of PFM crowns may experience slight discoloration.

Ultimately, the choice between zirconia crowns and PFM crowns depends on factors such as the condition of the tooth, budget, patient preferences, and the dentist's recommendation. It is highly advised to consult with your dentist to select the best type of crown for your specific needs.

 

Care and Maintenance of PFM and Zirconia Crowns

After examining the differences between zirconia crowns and PFM crowns, this section focuses on the necessary care to ensure the longevity of these crowns. As you know, dental crowns require special maintenance to preserve their aesthetics and functionality over the long term. By following the guidelines below, you can take the best care of your crowns:

 

• Use Mouthwash: Regular use of antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and maintain oral health.
• Brush Your Teeth: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time using fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss Daily: Use dental floss to remove food particles and bacteria from between teeth and under the gumline.
• Avoid Harmful Habits: To prevent damage to the crowns, avoid bad habits such as nail-biting, using your teeth to open bottle caps, or chewing on hard objects.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups and professional cleaning with your dentist are essential. Your dentist can ensure the health of your crowns and take necessary measures if needed.
• Follow a Proper Diet: Limit the consumption of hard and sticky foods, and avoid chewing on ice or extremely hard items.

 

 

• Avoid Consuming Extremely Hot Foods: PFM crowns, due to their underlying metal layer, may be more sensitive to temperature changes. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid consuming extremely hot or cold foods.
• Limit Intake of Coffee and Staining Substances: Although zirconia crowns are more resistant to stains and discoloration, it is still recommended to limit the consumption of staining foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, and colored sodas.
• Visit Your Dentist if Damaged: If you experience pain, sensitivity, loosening, breakage, or cracking of the crown, consult your dentist immediately.

 

Final Thoughts

In this article, we discussed the differences between zirconia and PFM crowns. Both types of dental crowns, whether zirconia or PFM, offer their unique beauty and strength, providing you with a confident and attractive smile. The choice between these two types of crowns depends on various factors, including individual dental needs, the location of restoration, and the dentist's recommendations.

The primary difference between zirconia and PFM crowns is that zirconia crowns, with their natural appearance and high strength, are ideal for restoring front teeth. On the other hand, PFM crowns, with their adaptability and aesthetic appeal, are suitable options for restoring both front and back teeth.

Consulting a specialist dentist is essential for selecting the best option. By thoroughly examining the condition of your mouth and teeth, the dentist will guide you in choosing the most appropriate crown, helping you achieve a lasting and beautiful smile.