COMPARISON OF ALL-PORCELAIN CROWN VS. PORCELAIN FUSED TO METAL CROWN
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth – to cover the tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and improve its appearance. Permanent crown can be made from porcelain-fused-to-metal, or all porcelain.
| All-Porcelain | Porcelain Fused to Metal | |
|---|---|---|
| General Description | Porcelain, ceramic or glasslike fillings and crowns | Porcelain is fused to an underlying metal structure to provide strength to a crown or bridge |
| Principal Uses | Inlays, onlays, crowns and aesthetic veneers | Crowns and fixed bridges |
| Durability | Very strong and durable | Very strong and durable |
| Preparation Consideration | Strength depends on adequate porcelain thickness; it requires moderate tooth reduction during preparation | Including both porcelain and metal creates a stronger restoration than porcelain alone; moderately aggressive tooth reduction is required |
| Resistance to Wear | Highly resistant to wear, but porcelain can rapidly wear opposing teeth if its surface becomes rough | Highly resistant to wear, but porcelain can rapidly wear opposing teeth if its surface becomes rough |
| Resistance to Fracture | Prone to fracture when placed under tension or on impact | Porcelain is prone to impact fracture; the metal has high strength |
| Biocompatibility | Well tolerated | Well tolerated, but some patients may show allergenic sensitivity to base metals |
| Post-Placement Sensitivity | Low thermal conductivity reduces the likelihood of discomfort from hot and cold | High thermal conductivity may result in early post-placement discomfort from hot and cold |
| Esthetics | Color and translucency mimic natural tooth appearance | Porcelain can mimic natural tooth appearance, but metal limits translucency. |
| Relative Cost/Visits | higher; requires at least two office visits and laboratory services | Requires at least two office visits and laboratory services |
