For most single crowns in 2026, all-ceramic (zirconia or e.max) is the default — better esthetics, no gray metal margin, more conservative prep, and longevity equal to or better than PFM. But PFM still wins in specific cases: long-span bridges, situations with limited vertical height for zirconia connectors, and cost-sensitive posterior work where esthetics are secondary. This guide shows exactly when to choose each.
Choosing a crown or bridge material? BioDent fabricates PFM, full-cast, e.max, and zirconia for practices nationwide — with per-case guidance. Send a case · 800-517-5250
At-a-glance comparison
| PFM (porcelain-fused-to-metal) | All-ceramic (zirconia / e.max) | |
|---|---|---|
| Esthetics | Good, but can show gray at the margin | Superior; no metal line |
| Long-span bridges | Strong choice (metal substructure) | Zirconia OK with adequate connector height |
| Tooth prep | ~2.0 mm | Zirconia ~0.6 mm (more conservative) |
| Biocompatibility | Metal alloy (rare sensitivity) | Metal-free |
| ~10-yr single-crown survival | ~92–96% | ~92–97% |
| Cost | Cost-effective | e.max/zirconia vary; BioDent zirconia $58 |
When PFM still wins
- Long-span bridges — the metal substructure’s flexural strength handles posterior loading where ceramic connectors may be at risk.
- Limited vertical/connector height — when there isn’t enough room for the bulkier connectors zirconia needs.
- Cost-sensitive posterior crowns — where esthetics are secondary and budget leads.
- Proven track record — decades of clinical data; multi-unit PFM prostheses report very high 5-year survival (~99.5% in one analysis).
When all-ceramic wins
- Anterior / esthetic zone — no gray cervical margin; e.max for translucency, multilayer zirconia to mask dark substrate.
- Conservative prep — zirconia needs far less reduction (~0.6 mm vs ~2.0 mm), preserving tooth structure.
- Metal-free preference — biocompatibility and no alloy.
- Posterior single units & most everyday crowns — monolithic zirconia combines strength and esthetics.
The metal margin issue
PFM’s metal substructure can reveal a gray line at the cervical margin, especially with gingival recession or a thin biotype — the most common esthetic complaint and a key reason all-ceramic has become the default in the smile zone. All-ceramic crowns eliminate the gray line entirely.
Survival and longevity
Both materials are durable: single-unit PFM reports ~92–96% survival at 10 years, and zirconia ~92–97% with very low annual failure rates. For multi-unit (bridge) work, PFM has historically shown very high survival, which is why it remains a strong long-span option; all-ceramic multi-unit survival is good and improving but more connector-dependent.
Quick decision framework
- Single anterior / esthetic → e.max (or multilayer zirconia over dark substrate).
- Single posterior → monolithic zirconia (or PFM if cost-led).
- Long-span posterior bridge / low connector height → PFM.
- Metal sensitivity / metal-free request → all-ceramic.
How BioDent fabricates
We fabricate PFM, full-cast, IPS e.max, and full-contour/layered zirconia — and advise the right material per case. Solid zirconia is $58/unit for practices, with the first 2 crowns free for new accounts. Every restoration is checked for marginal fit before it ships.
Send your crown or bridge case and we will match the material to the clinical reality. Open a lab account · 800-517-5250
Frequently asked questions
Is PFM or all-ceramic better?
For most single crowns, all-ceramic is better (esthetics, no gray margin, conservative prep, equal/better longevity). PFM still wins for long-span bridges, low connector height, and cost-sensitive posterior cases.
Why do PFM crowns sometimes show a gray line?
The metal substructure can show at the cervical margin, especially with recession or thin tissue. All-ceramic crowns avoid this.
Is PFM still good for bridges?
Yes — PFM is a strong choice for long-span posterior bridges and where there isn’t enough height for zirconia connectors.
Does all-ceramic last as long as PFM?
Yes — single-unit survival is comparable (~92–97%), and all-ceramic offers better esthetics and more conservative prep.
Does BioDent make PFM and all-ceramic?
Yes — PFM, full-cast, e.max, and zirconia, for practices nationwide.
