E-max Crowns
Lithium disilicate is a chemical compound that is a glass ceramic. They are widely used as dental ceramics due to their strength, machinability, and translucency. E.max crowns are made of lithium disilicate. This is one of the best materials currently available for making dental crowns. The material is also pleasingly translucent, which makes shading the crown to look like natural teeth much easier. The reason that E-max crowns are considered one of the best, because they are strikingly similar to natural teeth.
Each E-max crown is shaped from a single block of lithium disilicate, which is metal free. This means that E-max crowns can be worn even if your gum line is receding. The metal in “PFM” (Porcelain Fused to Metal) crowns can become visible when the gum line recedes with aging. This this is not the case with E.max crowns.
E-max crowns are also known for their sturdy and resilient construction. These crowns are unlikely to chip, and are considered less at risk of chipping than Zirconia crowns. Therefore, E-max crowns should be at certain thickness for long life. This is why every single crown is tailor-made per case.
E-max crowns are more translucent compared to Zirconia crowns. The ceramic material allows more light to pass through. The major advantage for creating teeth that looks as natural as possible. Its material is ideal for front teeth that are naturally thin and less opaque.
Zirconium Crowns
Zirconium is a naturally occurring crystal known for its toughness. The crystal is so hard; it’s even thought to be indestructible. As tough as it is, zirconium is also biocompatible, which means it can last in the human body. As a result, the crystal is used is many medical procedures, including creating dental crowns. Brands like Zirconia use the crystal to create long-lasting dental crowns.
Zirconium crowns are actually made from two materials, zirconium and porcelain. Zirconium used for internal crown while the exterior is molded from the more pliant porcelain. Zirconium is whitish in appearance, so the crystal blends well with natural enamel and never shows unsightly lines as with PFM crowns.
Zirconium crowns are highly prized for their long-lasting durability. However, the hardiness of the crystal comes at a price. Compared to E-max’s lithium disilicate, zirconium is more opaque. Therefore, dentists recommend zirconium crowns for back teeth that require sturdy material that can survive a lot of biting and chewing. Zirconium crowns are recommended with dark teeth underneath because the opaqueness hides the shadowing.
