How to Handle Chipped Porcelain on a Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crown

Dec 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

Porcelain chipping in porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns may be caused by prolonged use, material aging, excessive occlusal pressure, tooth wear, or external impact. In most cases, the issue can be resolved by replacing the crown, performing repairs, or implementing appropriate treatment based on the specific cause. If abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. In daily life, it is important to protect the PFM crown by avoiding biting hard objects and maintaining proper chewing habits.

Porcelain chipping in porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns may be caused by prolonged use, material aging, excessive occlusal pressure, tooth wear, or external impact. Generally, this issue can be resolved by replacing the crown, repairing the damage, or implementing appropriate treatment based on the specific cause. If abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Prolonged use: Extended usage of PFM crowns may lead to porcelain chipping due to long-term wear and material aging. In such cases, replacing the crown is recommended to restore dental aesthetics and function.

2. Material aging: The materials used in PFM crowns may gradually age over time, leading to reduced strength and resilience, thereby increasing the risk of porcelain chipping. For crowns affected by material aging, repair options such as reapplication of porcelain or replacement with a new crown can be considered.

3. Excessive occlusal pressure: If the occlusal relationship of the PFM crown is too tight, it may subject the tooth to excessive pressure during chewing, increasing the risk of porcelain chipping and potentially causing tooth pain or occlusal discomfort. Adjusting the occlusal relationship, such as modifying the opposing teeth or fabricating a new crown, is recommended to ensure proper occlusion.

4. Tooth wear: Long-term chewing on hard objects or poor chewing habits may lead to tooth wear, which compromises the stability of the PFM crown and increases the likelihood of porcelain chipping, often accompanied by tooth sensitivity and morphological changes. Worn teeth should be restored through treatments such as dental fillings or fabrication of a new crown to restore normal tooth shape and function.

5. External impact: Porcelain chipping may occur when a PFM crown is subjected to external force or trauma, potentially accompanied by tooth mobility, pain, or bleeding. In such cases, prompt dental consultation is necessary, and treatment involving repair or crown replacement should be performed based on the severity of the damage.

In daily life, it is important to protect PFM crowns by avoiding biting on hard objects and maintaining proper chewing habits. Regular dental check-ups and maintenance are also essential to prolong the lifespan of the crowns.

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Which is better between porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and dental implants, and what are the differences?

Under normal circumstances, both porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns and dental implants are common methods for dental restoration. Both are effective but are suitable for different situations. The differences between the two lie in restoration principles, effects on adjacent teeth, comfort and functional recovery, lifespan, cost, and other aspects. When choosing between PFM crowns and dental implants, a comprehensive consideration of individual oral conditions, financial capacity, and other factors is recommended.

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What should I do if my porcelain crown falls off?

In general, if a porcelain crown becomes dislodged, the main management methods include seeking timely medical evaluation, cleaning the area, temporary fixation, remaking and re-cementing the crown, and proper follow-up care. Additionally, patients should follow their dentist's advice throughout the process, attend scheduled follow-up appointments, and seek prompt medical attention if they experience any abnormalities such as tooth pain, swelling, or loosening of the crown.

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How many years is the lifespan of a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown?

The lifespan of a porcelain crown typically ranges from 8 to 15 years, depending on factors such as the material used, daily care, and oral conditions. Proper maintenance can extend its longevity. In daily life, avoid biting hard objects with the porcelain crown, and maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth in the morning and evening and using dental floss regularly. Visit a dental clinic periodically for checkups to detect and address issues such as loosening or wear of the porcelain crown promptly.

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How to Treat Tetracycline-stained Teeth

Tetracycline-stained teeth are usually caused by the ingestion of tetracycline antibiotics during childhood. Treatment options include daily oral care, bleaching procedures, porcelain laminate veneers, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, and root canal treatment. The effectiveness of treatment may vary from person to person. The choice of treatment for tetracycline-stained teeth should be based on the degree of tooth discoloration, individual needs, and the dentist's recommendation.