Crown and Bridge Prep Design Guides

Incorrect margin design and insufficient prep reduction can lead to case delays and refabrications.

We've outlined the ideal design parameters based on the restoration material below. This will help you determine the necessary reduction or clearance when preparing a patient's treatment and submitting orders to Dandy.

Materials Minimum + 0.1mm buffer Ideal Occlusal Clearance Ideal Axial Wall Reduction Margin Type Margin Thickness
Zirconia Monolithic 0.65mm 1.5mm 1.2mm Shoulder or Chamfer 1.0mm
Zirconia Translucent Aesthetic 0.7mm Ant/0.9mm Post 1.5mm 1.2mm Shoulder or Chamfer 1.0mm
PFZ - Porcelain Fused to Zirconia 0.65mm* 2.0mm 1.5mm Shoulder or Chamfer 1.0mm
PFM - Porcelain Fused to Metal 0.5-0.6mm* 2.0mm 1.5mm Shoulder or Chamfer 1.0mm
Full Metal Crown 0.5-0.6mm 1.0mm 1.0mm Shoulder or Chamfer 0.5mm
Emax - Lithium Disilicate 0.9mm Ant/1.1mm Post 1.5mm 1.2mm Shoulder or Chamfer 1.0mm
Layered Emax - Layered Lithium Disilicate 0.9mm Ant/1.1mm Post
(+1mm for all porcelain surfaces)
2.0mm 1.2mm Shoulder or Chamfer 1.0mm
Emax Veneer   1.0mm 0.6mm Chamfer 0.5mm

 *PFMs, by default, are designed for full porcelain coverage. If clearance is less than 1.5mm, the design may require metal occlusal or metal lingual. Confirm with the Doctor if discovered during case review.

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