Dental crowns are manufactured by various brands using different materials. Two well-known brands in the dental industry are E.max and Zirconia. However, these brands distinguish themselves not only through marketing but also through the materials used in their dental crowns. E.max crowns are crafted from lithium disilicate, while Zirconia crowns are made from a material called zirconium. Consequently, the appearance, functionality, and durability of these crowns can vary depending on the material used.
E-max
E-max is an all-ceramic system that utilizes Lithium Disilicate glass as its material. It is renowned for its exceptional aesthetic qualities. Porcelain can be layered onto the E-max framework, resulting in remarkable translucency and a highly realistic tooth appearance that seamlessly blends in with surrounding natural teeth.
Zirconia
Zirconia is a ceramic material known as Zirconium Dioxide. It is a white, powdered metal oxide commonly used in dental restorations. One of its key characteristics is its exceptional strength, making it highly resistant to wear and difficult to crack. Zirconia is known for its durability, making it a popular choice for dental crowns and other dental prosthetics that require long-lasting and robust solutions.
What’s the Difference Between E-Max & Zirconium Crowns?
The choice between E-max and zirconia crowns depends on specific factors and requirements. E-max crowns are highly suitable for anterior teeth due to their pleasing aesthetics and ability to closely resemble natural teeth. They are particularly ideal for front teeth that are thin and less opaque. On the other hand, zirconia crowns are known for their strength, making them a great option for posterior teeth such as molars. These teeth may not be visible when smiling but require durability for chewing food. Zirconia crowns are also recommended for individuals with bruxism (teeth grinding) due to their resilience.
E-max crowns typically have a lifespan of around 10-15 years, after which they may be prone to cracking or fracturing due to pressure from grinding or a strong bite. They offer high translucency compared to zirconia crowns, allowing more natural-looking teeth as more light passes through the ceramic material. The milling process used in creating E-max crowns ensures a precise tooth shape, with customization based on a digital impression of the patient’s tooth.