A full metal crown (FMC) is a dental restoration that fully covers a damaged or weakened tooth, crafted entirely from biocompatible dental alloys. It stands out for exceptional durability, making it ideal for posterior teeth (molars/pre-molars) that endure high chewing forces.
Common materials include cobalt-chromium (hypoallergenic, corrosion-resistant), nickel-chromium (cost-effective, lightweight), and gold alloys (biocompatible, malleable-though less common today due to cost). These alloys offer high tensile strength, resisting fracture and wear even with long-term use.
Clinically, FMCs are recommended for teeth with extensive decay, large fillings, root canal treatment, or structural damage. The placement process involves tooth preparation (shaping the tooth to accommodate the crown), impression taking, and temporary crown placement while the custom FMC is fabricated.
Advantages include superior longevity (10–15 years with proper care), minimal tooth reduction compared to porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, and excellent fit that prevents bacterial infiltration. Limitations are aesthetic constraints-their metallic appearance makes them unsuitable for anterior teeth-and potential metal sensitivity in rare cases.
Maintenance requires regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to preserve oral health and crown integrity. Avoiding excessive force from hard foods further extends their lifespan, solidifying FMCs as a reliable solution for restoring function to compromised posterior teeth.