At Iverson Dental Lab, restoring beautiful smiles is not just business; it’s a commitment. When it comes to restoring a patient’s smile, the material choices can make or break the outcome. Aesthetics, economy, durability, and preparation requirements all come into play, and choosing the right one can become overwhelming very quickly.
That is where our trusted dental technology lab becomes your best asset in dental care. Let’s break down the big three materials in dental restoration: zirconia, PFM, or a full cast. What makes them different, and when should you choose one over the other?
Zirconia Crowns – Where Strength Meets Aesthetics
Zirconia has swiftly become a popular and sought-after restoration material in the dental world, and for good reason. With the help of computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD/CAM), these crowns are milled from solid blocks of zirconia, and they offer a palatable combination of strength, durability, biocompatibility, and esthetics.
There are various types in the category:
- Full-contour zirconia for posterior restorations (premolars & molars – used for chewing)
- Layered zirconia for highly esthetic anterior crowns (incisors & canines – visible when smiling)
Iverson Dental Lab offers both options, customizing translucency and shading to match the natural dentition. Zirconia is ideal for patients who might grind their teeth, may need long-span dental bridges, or want a metal-free restoration without compromising strength.
PFM (Porcelain Fused to Metal) – Versatility & Durability
These have been around for decades and are still in demand. These dental restorations center on a metal substructure for added strength, topped with a coat of porcelain to mimic the natural appearance of teeth.
Why is it a Suitable Choice?
- Often insurance-backed
- Excellent for precise margin placement requirements
- Optimal balance of strength & aesthetics
The caveat is that they can be prone to chipping over the years (being porcelain), and if the gums recede, a dark line might become visible at the edge of the crown – that would uproot the entire point of a flawless smile. Still, for patients who depend on a familiar & reliable solution, PFM remains a popular choice – even more so when fabricated by a top dental laboratory in the USA like Iverson’s.
Full-Cast – Tried, Tested & Built to Last
When durability is a critical priority, full-cast crowns & bridges are unmatched. Crafted entirely from high-quality, non-reactive metal alloys, they offer exceptional wear resistance and require minimal tooth reduction.
Best For:
- Posterior crowns & bridges (back teeth that need strong, long-lasting support)
- Patients with heavy occlusion or bruxism (people who grind their teeth or put extra pressure on their bite)
- Cases where esthetics are less of a concern
Full-cast crown restorations are also gentler on the teeth they bite against and can last for many years. Today’s digital lab workflows and facilitations, including our dental technology lab, make them more accurate than ever.
Not Sure What to Choose? Let Our Lab Guide You!
Working with a high-quality dental laboratory in the USA is not just about outsourcing a product; it is about collaborating on ideal outcomes for your patient. Iverson Dental Lab not only fabricates crowns and bridges, but they also offer guidance, case planning, and material recommendations tailored to your dental goals.
Whether submitting a digital scan or utilizing a traditional dental impression, Iverson supports your workflow using avant-garde CAD/CAM systems, additive manufacturing, and a total quality management process to ensure each case meets your turnaround standards and your patients’ expectations.
It’s All About You!
There is no default fit when it comes to crown and bridge materials. Each option—Zirconia, PFM, or Full-Cast—has its place in the situation and the patient’s preference. But what matters most is having a lab partner you can trust.
With decades of experience and a strong reputation across the states, Iverson Dental Lab is that partner. We promise reliability, standards, innovation, and a human connection to every dental restoration.
Get in touch with us today!
