Please note: Contact our office at (412) 221-9440 to confirm service availability and schedule your consultation.*
A Stunning and Durable Smile Restoration
Are you searching for a dental restoration that offers both strength and aesthetic appeal? At DiBartola Dental, our Allegheny County dental practice provides porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, providing patients with a reliable solution for damaged or compromised teeth. Bridgeville restorative dentist, Dr. Wayne DiBartola combines decades of experience with advanced techniques to deliver exceptional results for patients throughout the South Hills area.
To explore your dental crown options and learn if PFM crowns are right for you, call our Bridgeville office at (412) 221-9440 to schedule your consultation.
What Are Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Dental Crowns?
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns represent a
sophisticated blend of durability and aesthetics in modern dentistry. These innovative restorations feature a strong metal foundation – typically crafted from biocompatible alloys such as gold, nickel, or chromium – meticulously layered with natural-looking dental porcelain. At DiBartola Dental, we carefully select the highest quality materials to ensure your crown provides both lasting strength and beautiful aesthetics.
Types of Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
There are several variations of PFM crowns to meet patients’ specific needs. Dr. DiBartola carefully selects the most appropriate type based on factors such as tooth location, bite forces, and aesthetic requirements.
Noble Metal Base Crowns
Noble metal PFM crowns utilize precious metals like gold or palladium in their substructure. These premium restorations offer superior biocompatibility and exceptional durability. The noble metal base provides excellent margin adaptation and tissue compatibility, making these crowns an ideal choice for patients with metal sensitivities. At our Allegheny County dental practice, we often recommend noble metal PFM crowns for back teeth where durability is paramount.
High Noble Metal Base Crowns
High noble metal PFM crowns contain the highest percentage of precious metals (typically 60 percent or more), including gold, platinum, and palladium. These crowns represent the gold standard in PFM restorations, offering unmatched durability and biocompatibility. While they represent a higher initial investment, their longevity and performance often make them the most cost-effective choice over time. Contact our Bridgeville office at (412) 221-9440 to learn if high noble metal crowns are right for you.
Base Metal Alloy Crowns
Base metal PFM crowns utilize non-precious metals like nickel-chromium or cobalt-chromium alloys. These materials provide excellent strength and durability at a more accessible price point. Their strong metal framework makes them particularly suitable for molars and patients who grind their teeth. However, patients with metal allergies may need to consider alternative options.
Shoulder Porcelain Margin Crowns
Shoulder porcelain margin crowns feature an all-porcelain margin around the gum line, eliminating the possibility of visible metal edges. Dr. DiBartola often recommends these for front teeth where aesthetics are crucial. The unique design combines the strength of a metal substructure with the natural appearance of an all-ceramic crown at the gum line.
Full-Collar PFM Crowns
Full-collar PFM crowns incorporate a complete metal collar at the gum line, providing maximum strength and durability. While these may show a thin metal line, they offer superior structural integrity and are excellent choices for back teeth or situations where preventing fracture is the primary concern.
Choosing the Right Type of PFM Crown
Several factors influence the selection of your PFM crown type:
- Location of the Tooth: Front teeth often benefit from shoulder porcelain margin crowns for optimal aesthetics. Back teeth may be better served by full-collar or base metal options for maximum strength.
- Bite Forces: Heavy grinders might require the durability of base metal or full-collar designs. Normal bite patterns may allow for more aesthetic-focused options.
- Budget Considerations: Noble and high noble metal options represent a premium investment. Base metal alternatives offer excellent durability at a lower cost point.
- Metal Sensitivities: Patients with metal allergies typically do best with noble metal options. Those with specific sensitivities may need alternative restoration types.
Ready to discover which type of PFM crown best suits your needs? Schedule your consultation with Dr. DiBartola by calling our Bridgeville dental office at (412) 221-9440.
Benefits of Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Dr. DiBartola recommends PFM crowns for many patients due to their numerous advantages:
- Aesthetic Excellence: Each crown is custom-crafted to match your natural tooth color perfectly. Our advanced color-matching techniques ensure seamless integration with your smile, making it virtually impossible to distinguish from your natural teeth.
- Unmatched Durability: The metal substructure provides exceptional strength, making PFM crowns particularly suitable for back teeth where chewing forces are strongest. These restorations can withstand years of daily use while maintaining their appearance.
- Versatile Applications: Whether you’re dealing with extensive decay, structural damage, or cosmetic concerns, PFM crowns offer a comprehensive solution. They’re particularly effective for protecting weakened teeth, restoring severely damaged teeth, covering dental implants, supporting dental bridges, and enhancing smile aesthetics.
Ready to learn more about how PFM crowns can benefit your smile? Contact our Bridgeville dental office at (412) 221-9440.
Drawbacks of Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns
As your trusted Allegheny County dental practice, we believe in providing comprehensive information about all treatment options:
- Aesthetic Considerations: While rare with modern techniques, a thin dark line may appear near the gumline in some cases. Dr. DiBartola uses advanced placement techniques to minimize this possibility.
- Natural Light Reflection: PFM crowns may not achieve quite the same level of translucency as all-ceramic options, though this is typically only noticeable on front teeth.
- Preparation Requirements: Your natural tooth requires careful preparation to accommodate the crown structure. Our team uses precise, conservative techniques to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
The Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns Dental Process
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough evaluation by Dr. DiBartola. During this visit, we’ll discuss your goals, examine your oral health, and determine if PFM crowns are your best option. We’ll take the time to answer all your questions and outline your personalized treatment plan.
Tooth Preparation
Using advanced techniques and gentle care, Dr. DiBartola prepares your tooth to receive the crown. This process involves carefully reshaping the tooth to ensure proper fit and function of your new restoration.
Impressions and Temporary Crown
We take detailed digital impressions of your prepared tooth, ensuring precise measurements for your custom crown. A temporary crown protects your tooth while our trusted dental laboratory crafts your permanent restoration.
Laboratory Fabrication
Our skilled laboratory partners create your custom PFM crown using premium materials and exacting specifications. This process typically takes about two weeks, during which your temporary crown maintains your smile’s appearance and function.
Final Placement
When your permanent crown arrives, you’ll return to our office for the final fitting. Dr. DiBartola carefully checks the fit, color match, and bite alignment before permanently securing your new crown.
Follow-Up Care
To ensure the longevity of your PFM crown, our team provides comprehensive care instructions and ongoing support. Regular check-ups at our Bridgeville office help maintain both your crown and overall oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns last?
With proper care and maintenance, PFM crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, though many patients enjoy their restorations for even longer. The durability of your crown depends largely on your oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits. Dr. DiBartola recommends twice-yearly check-ups to monitor your crown’s condition and address any concerns before they become serious issues.
Can a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown be repaired?
While minor chips in the porcelain layer can sometimes be repaired, the extent and location of the damage determine the best course of action. Dr. DiBartola will thoroughly evaluate any damage to determine whether repair or replacement is more appropriate. In cases where repair is possible, we use advanced techniques and materials to restore both function and aesthetics.
What is the average cost of a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown?
The cost of a PFM crown varies based on several factors, including the complexity of your case and specific treatment requirements. Our team works with most major insurance providers and offers flexible payment options to make treatment more accessible. We’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation and help you understand your insurance benefits and financing options.
Do porcelain fused-to-metal-crowns contain mercury?
PFM crowns are completely mercury-free, using only biocompatible metals like gold, nickel, or chromium for their substructure. The materials used in modern PFM crowns are carefully selected for both safety and durability. Dr. DiBartola can discuss the specific materials used in your crown and address any concerns about metal allergies or sensitivities.
Transform Your Smile with DiBartola Dental, Call Now!
Experience the perfect blend of strength and beauty with custom dental crown solutions at DiBartola Dental. Serving Bridgeville, Canonsburg, Brentwood, Oakdale, and surrounding communities throughout Allegheny County, our practice is committed to delivering exceptional dental care with a personal touch.
Schedule your consultation today by calling (412) 221-9440 to discover how PFM crowns can enhance your smile and restore your confidence.