When do you recommend porcelain fused to metal crowns?

I often recommend porcelain fused to metal  crowns for restoring posterior teeth that need a cosmetic restoration that will protect compromised tooth structure. Many posterior teeth either have cracks in them or have tooth structure that might crack if restored with a simple composite filling. Although many types of tooth coloured crowns are a available (emax,Procera, Lava, Empress....) I feel that a well made porcelain fused to metal crown is still the best choice for most patients. It allows beveling a tooth which can protect teeth from flexing and can allow for a more intimate fit. I have written a short article on my New York Dentist office website that can be found at: http://www.lspindeldds.com/porcelain_fused_to_metal_crowns.

Usually for anterior teeth, with sufficient remaining tooth structure, I choose a more transulucent option, such as an all bonded porcelain restoration or a Lava crown. Both of these can appear extemely life like. Some of the newer emax restorations can look quite beautiful as well, especially when they have exterior staining applied.