Porcelain fused to zirconia (PFZ) crowns are favored by dentists for their blend of strength, aesthetics, and durability. Made with CAD/CAM technology, these crowns combine a porcelain layer over a zirconia base, suitable for anterior teeth. Zirconia’s biocompatibility prevents oral reactions and its strong bond with porcelain minimizes fracture risks. Additionally, PFZ crowns avoid oral galvanism caused by electrical currents between metal alloys in saliva.
At a glance:
Natural Transparency:
PFZ crowns are designed to mimic the translucency of natural teeth. The porcelain layer on the exterior can be crafted to allow light to pass through, similar to natural tooth enamel. This translucency can be adjusted to match the patient’s adjacent teeth, providing a natural look that is often indistinguishable from real teeth.
Zirconium Strength with Porcelain Aesthetics:
Zirconia is a highly durable material with exceptional fracture toughness and flexural strength, making it resistant to chipping and cracking. The inner core of PFZ crowns is made of zirconia, providing a strong foundation that can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. This is covered with a layer of porcelain, which is tailored to match the color and texture of natural teeth, offering a superior cosmetic result.
Can be Repolished In-Office to a High Gloss:
Over time, dental crowns can become dull or scratched. PFZ crowns have the advantage of being able to be polished in a dental office to restore their original high gloss finish. This means that they can maintain their aesthetic appeal for longer, without the need for replacement. The ability to be repolished also means that minor surface imperfections can be easily corrected.
Very Strong (1200 MPa and Higher):
The zirconia used in PFZ crowns typically has a flexural strength of 1200 megapascals (MPa) or more, which is much higher than that of other dental materials. This high strength means that PFZ crowns are less likely to fracture or fail, even when placed in areas of the mouth where the forces of chewing are greatest, such as the molars.
Made with CAD/CAM:
Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology enables the precise design and fabrication of dental crowns. With CAD/CAM, PFZ crowns are custom-milled from a solid block of zirconia, ensuring a precise fit to the patient’s tooth. This technology also allows for a faster turnaround time, as the crown can often be created in a single dental visit.
PFZ crowns are a popular choice for patients looking for a durable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing dental restoration. They combine modern technology with advanced materials to provide a solution that is both functional and natural-looking.
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