Crown-Porcelain Fused to Predominantly Base Metal
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
A porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown is a type of dental restoration used to restore the function, shape, and appearance of a damaged or decayed tooth. In this specific variation, the crown consists of a porcelain outer layer fused to a metal core predominantly made from base metals, such as nickel or chromium. The porcelain coating gives the crown a natural tooth-like appearance, while the metal substructure provides strength and durability.
The choice of predominantly base metals for the core has become increasingly common due to the combination of high corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and affordability. These base metals offer a reliable framework for dental crowns, making them particularly suitable for posterior teeth where strength is crucial. The use of porcelain on the outer surface allows the crown to mimic the appearance of natural teeth, making it a popular option for patients seeking both durability and aesthetics.
During the procedure, the dentist first prepares the tooth by reshaping it to accommodate the crown. This involves removing any damaged portions of the tooth and creating enough space for the crown to fit properly. A precise mold is taken of the reshaped tooth and surrounding teeth, which is sent to a dental laboratory where the PFM crown is custom-made to fit the patient’s tooth structure and bite.
Once the crown is ready, it is carefully fitted over the prepared tooth. The dentist checks the fit, shape, and color to ensure it matches the patient’s natural teeth and bite alignment. The final step involves bonding the crown to the tooth using dental cement, ensuring a secure and long-lasting restoration. Porcelain-fused-to-base-metal crowns are favored for their balance of cost-effectiveness, strength, and aesthetics, making them a widely used option in dental restoration.
Procedure Duration
The timeline for a PFM crown procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the patient's oral health, and the need for any preliminary treatments, such as root canal therapy or the placement of a dental implant. However, the entire process typically takes two to three visits to the dentist, spanning over a few weeks.
- First visit (Preparation and Impressions): The initial visit usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes. During this visit, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth before preparing the tooth by removing damaged or decayed areas. After reshaping the tooth, an impression is made of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. The dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while waiting for the permanent crown to be manufactured.
- Interim Period (Crown Creation): The creation of the custom porcelain-fused-to-metal crown in a dental laboratory typically takes two to three weeks. During this period, the laboratory technician uses the impressions to fabricate a crown that matches the patient's tooth structure and bite. The use of base metal alloys for the core ensures that the crown is strong, while the porcelain coating is crafted to blend seamlessly with the adjacent teeth.
- Second visit (Final Fitting): Once the crown is ready, the second visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. During this visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown, cleans the tooth, and checks the fit and color of the permanent crown. After making any necessary adjustments, the crown is cemented in place, restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.
Recovery time is minimal for most patients, as discomfort typically subsides within a few days. Any soreness or sensitivity can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, and patients are usually able to return to normal activities, including eating and drinking, immediately after the procedure.
Benefits
- Durability: The metal core provides strength and resistance to wear, making PFM crowns ideal for restoring molars and other posterior teeth that endure significant chewing pressure.
- Aesthetic Appearance: The porcelain coating closely resembles the appearance of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with the patient’s smile.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to crowns made of precious metals or full porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-base-metal crowns are generally more affordable while still offering high durability and aesthetics.
- Biocompatibility: Base metal alloys, such as nickel or chromium, have high corrosion resistance and are biocompatible with the oral environment, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
- Long-Lasting: With proper care and maintenance, PFM crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, or even longer in some cases, making them a reliable long-term dental restoration option.
Potential Destinations
For medical tourists seeking PFM crowns, there are several destinations globally renowned for high-quality dental care, affordable treatment options, and state-of-the-art facilities:
- Mexico: Known for affordable and high-quality dental treatments, Mexico is a top destination for patients from the United States and Canada. Many clinics are located in border towns, providing convenience for international patients, with prices significantly lower than in the U.S.
- Thailand: A leader in medical tourism, Thailand offers top-tier dental services at competitive prices. Bangkok and Phuket are particularly known for their state-of-the-art dental clinics, experienced professionals, and a strong focus on patient care.
- Turkey: Turkey has become a popular destination for dental treatments, offering world-class facilities and highly skilled dental professionals. Istanbul, in particular, is renowned for providing cost-effective porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns without compromising quality.
- Hungary: Often considered the dental hub of Europe, Hungary attracts patients from all over the continent due to its advanced dental technology and affordable rates. Budapest is home to numerous clinics specializing in crowns and other restorative procedures.
- India: India is a major player in medical and dental tourism, offering high-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. Cities like Mumbai and Delhi host internationally accredited dental clinics that cater to international patients.
Risks & Considerations
- Metal Sensitivity: Although rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to the base metals used in the crown’s core. Nickel sensitivity is the most common concern.
- Porcelain Chipping: While the metal core provides strength, the porcelain coating may chip or crack, particularly under heavy biting forces. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the crown’s condition.
- Gum Irritation: In some cases, the metal alloy can cause gum irritation or a dark line near the gumline where the crown meets the tooth.
- Color Mismatch: While the porcelain coating can be customized to match the patient’s natural teeth, there may be slight variations in color over time due to wear or exposure to certain foods and beverages.
- Longevity: While durable, PFM crowns are not permanent and may need to be replaced after several years due to wear or damage. Proper oral hygiene is key to extending the crown’s lifespan.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When selecting a provider for a porcelain-fused-to-base-metal crown, it is essential to prioritize both the dentist’s expertise and the facility’s standards. Start by researching dentists who specialize in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Check for qualifications such as advanced dental degrees, membership in reputable dental organizations, and positive reviews from previous patients.
Additionally, ensure that the clinic or hospital follows international dental standards and is equipped with modern technology to guarantee the best possible outcomes. A good provider will offer a comprehensive consultation, explain all available options, and ensure the crown is custom-made to fit your unique dental anatomy.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
Orthopedics Stem Cell
Knee
Research on mesenchymal stem cells regenerative properties in knee osteoarthritis. In these studies, researchers suggest that Stem Cell Therapy has the potential to regenerate lost cartilage, stop and reverse cartilage degeneration, provide pain relief, and improve patient mobility.
Shoulder
Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative to Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Replacement Surgery. Stem cell therapy may offer an excellent alternative for patients looking to avoid shoulder joint replacement surgery, as well as many other surgical treatments for shoulder pain.
Ankle
If you suffer from chronic or acute ankle pain or instability due to arthritis, cartilage loss, ligament strain or tear, or tendon damage, then you may benefit from non-surgical stem cell treatments or stem cell-enhanced surgery.
Back Pain
Patients now have a minimally invasive option. Stem cell therapy for back pain and disc herniations can potentially repair the damaged disc or facet joint, restore function, rehydrate the disc, and ultimately alleviate chronic pain.
Anti-Aging Stem Cell
Hair Loss
Stem cell therapy and PRP therapy have been shown to be most effective for: Those in the early stages of hair loss, patients who are not viable candidates for surgery and women who prefer to avoid hair surgery.
Facial Anti-Aging
Aesthetic Anti-Aging. The Aesthetic Stem Cell Localized Treatment is a non-surgical minimally invasive procedure to enhance the appearance of aging skin and hair restoration. This all-natural technique combines dermal injections of bone marrow or adipose tissue derived stem cells and growth factors.
Fertility Stem Cell
Endometrial PRP
The stem cells used for treatment of a thin endometrium include mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, successful repair of the endometrium in pregnancy with stem cells has been reported previously.
Low Ovarian Reserve (PRP)
The treatment uses PRP (Platelet-Rich-Plasma), which with stem cell therapy is the novel therapeutic approach for restoring the quality of the ovarian reserve.Your PRP will contain a physiologic balance of platelets, growth factors and white blood cells tailored specifically for you.
Punta Mita Hospital
Mexico
Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
Mexico
