Comparative Evaluation OF Esthetic Outcomes Between Zirconia Crowns AND Porcelain-Fused-TO-Metal (Pfm) Crowns

Abstract

Background: The use of crowns and bridge prostheses is a common and essential procedure in modern dental practice, providing both reliable functional outcomes and enhanced esthetic appearance. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to compare the esthetic outcomes, patient satisfaction, and complication rates of zirconia crowns versus porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns.

Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to compare the esthetic outcomes, patient satisfaction, and complication rates of zirconia crowns versus porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns.

Methods: This prospective comparative study at the Department of Prosthodontics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) and beau-dent, Dhaka, Bangladesh (June 2021–July 2022) included 80 single-unit crowns (zirconia n = 40; PFM n = 40). Crowns were fabricated (zirconia: CAD/CAM; PFM: conventional) and cemented. Esthetic outcomes (USPHS/FDI), patient satisfaction (VAS 0–10), and complications were recorded. Data were analyzed in SPSS v23.0; p < 0.05 was significant.

Results: In 80 participants, zirconia and PFM groups were comparable in age, gender, and tooth location. Zirconia crowns showed higher color match (95% vs 72.5%, p = 0.006), translucency (90% vs 70%, p = 0.025), and patient satisfaction (VAS 9.4 ± 0.8 vs 8.1 ± 1.2, p < 0.0001), while smooth surface texture and marginal adaptation were similar. Complications occurred only in PFM crowns: chipping 17.5% and gingival discoloration 15% (p = 0.006 and 0.026).

Conclusion: Zirconia crowns provide superior esthetic outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and fewer complications compared to PFM crowns, supporting their preferred use in restorative dentistry.