PFM
Also written as: PFM — Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal
Abbreviation for porcelain-fused-to-metal, a crown or bridge construction in which a porcelain veneer is bonded to a cast metal substructure.
Full Definition
PFM (porcelain-fused-to-metal) is one of the most historically common crown and bridge fabrication techniques in dental laboratory work. A metal coping or framework is cast first, then layered with feldspathic porcelain to achieve natural tooth aesthetics. Editors will encounter 'PFM' in lab prescriptions, invoices, and technical reports. The expanded form 'porcelain-fused-to-metal' should be written out on first reference in formal documents, with PFM acceptable on subsequent references.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate the full form as 'porcelain-fused-to-metal' when used attributively. Do not write 'PFM crown' without first spelling out the term in formal documents.
In Context
- "The lab invoice listed three PFM units and one full-cast gold molar crown." — Dental laboratory invoice
- "PFM restorations require careful attention to metal opacity notes in the shade prescription." — Laboratory work order