Author: Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Crowns (Dentistry)
Languages : en
Pages : 19
Book Description
Porcelain-fused to-metal (PFM) crowns have been considered the gold standard for the repair of damaged teeth. PFM crowns have good mechanical properties, satisfactory esthetic results, and an acceptable biological quality needed for periodontal health. However, PFM crowns have some limitations that may limit their use. The fabrication of PFM is a highly technique-sensitive procedure that consists of investing wax patterns and casting precious metal alloys. Furthermore, the esthetic of PFM crowns is limited by the metal framework and the layer of opaque porcelain needed for masking the underlying metal grayish shade. Recently the cost of precious metals has risen markedly making PFM relatively unattractive from an economic standpoint. Ceramic crowns have been tried in the last four decades to replace PFM crowns and overcome their esthetic limitations. However, the use of all-ceramic crowns has been challenged in practice by the uncertainty of their physical proprieties and their resistance to fracture and chipping. Policy makers require information on the relative benefits and costs associated with different types of crown materials in order to support reimbursement decisions. The objective of this review is to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of dental PFM and all-ceramic crowns.