Porcelain Fused to Zirconia Crowns and Bridges
Porcelain fused to zirconia (PFZ) crowns and bridges serve as a modern CAD/CAM alternative to traditional porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) restorations. In our clinic we offer PFZ crowns and bridges as one of the options for fixed prosthetics. When porcelain is layered over a zirconia substructure, the result is a very strong restoration with lifelike translucency. The strength of the zirconia core is equal to, or greater than, that of the metal substructure used in conventional PFM crowns. These durable and attractive restorations are suitable for both anterior and posterior applications.
Advantages:
- High flexural strength from the zirconia core combined with excellent aesthetics from the layered porcelain
- No metal – eliminates the risk of dark gumline margins and metal allergies
- Superior translucency and light transmission compared with PFM
- Biocompatible and suitable for both single crowns and multi-unit bridges
Disadvantages:
- Possibility of porcelain chipping or delamination from the zirconia core under heavy occlusal load
- Higher cost than traditional PFM restorations
- Requires precise laboratory technique and bonding protocols for optimal longevity
Application Limitations:
- Layered PFZ may not be ideal for patients with severe bruxism or extremely high bite forces – monolithic zirconia is often preferred in such cases
- Very long-span bridges may still require careful case selection; framework design is critical