E-max and zirconia are popular choices among dentists and dental patients for dental restorations. In the past metals and porcelain were widely used for dental restorations. However, they have some disadvantages, such as adverse reactions in the body. E-max and zirconia have replaced conventional materials. Although both are ceramic materials, they differ in some properties. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of E-max vs Zirconia so you can decide which material is better for you.
What is E-max Dental Material
E-max is composed of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic. It is widely used in the manufacturing of dental restoration materials like dental crowns, bridges, veneers, etc. One of the biggest advantages of E-max over other materials is high translucency. Naturally, teeth are translucent, which means light can pass through them. This light makes teeth look radiant. E-max mimics this natural property of teeth. The importance of E-max lies in its ability to simultaneously provide strength, durability, translucency, and ease of processing.
What is Zirconia Dental Material
Zirconia dental material is made from zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂). Out of all dental Zirconia Material has the highest fracture-toughness. It is ideal for harsh conditions in the mouth because it is resistant to chemical degradation and temperature changes. Although, it looks like natural teeth it lacks translucency. Zirconia is opaque which makes it aesthetically less pleasing.
Comparing Properties of E-max and Zirconia
To have a better understanding let’s compare the properties of E-max vs zirconia in detail.
E-max vs Zirconia Strength
In the comparison of E-max vs zirconia, Zirconia has a much larger flexural strength than E-max. E-max offers a flexural strength of around 400 MPa. This strength is adequate for most anterior restorations. E-max may not be the best choice for posterior areas. In contrast, zirconia has flexural strength typically around 800-1200 MPa. A higher strength of zirconia makes it ideal for posterior restorations or areas that will be subjected to heavy chewing forces.
E-max vs Zirconia Translucency
For achieving a natural look in restorations translucency plays a crucial role. Tnaslucency measures how much light can pass through the material. Teeth are naturally translucent means light can pass through them creating depth and color variation. E-max is highly translucent which makes it one of the most aesthetically pleasing materials in dentistry. On the other hand, zirconia has much less translucency. Newer formulations of zirconia offer much higher translucency. In the E-max vs zirconia comparison, E-max is far superior in translucency.
E-max vs Zirconia Thickness Requirements
The thickness requirement of dental Zirconia Material is a critical factor that influences both the strength and aesthetic properties of restorations. One of the advantages of E-max is that it can be milled to think layers without compromising its strength. E-max veneers can be as thin as 0.3mm. Zirconia veneers have a thickness between 0.7mm to 1mm. In the E-max vs zirconia comparison, E-max allows for thinner restorations (as thin as 0.3 mm for veneers) while maintaining good strength and excellent esthetics.
E-max vs Zirconia Aesthetic Appeal
Considering the aesthetic appeal of dental Zirconia Material is crucial, especially for restoration visible in smile zones. E-max gives a highly natural appearance due to its high translucency. Zirconia has low translucency which does not quite match the natural translucency of E-max for highly visible anterior restorations. When considering E-max vs zirconia for esthetics, the high translucency of E-max allows for a more natural appearance.
E-max vs Zirconia Biocompatibility
In terms of biocompatibility, both E-max and zirconia are biocompatible meaning they do not trigger an immune response in the body. However, some clinical studies have shown that E-max causes inflammation in the soft tissues surrounding the restoration.
E-max vs Zirconia Thermal Stability
The temperature in our mouth fluctuates significantly from hot drinks and food. Under these varying temperatures, the dental material should be able to perform well. For that reason, dental materials should have high thermal stability. In the E-max vs zirconia comparison for thermal stability, zirconia offers superior resistance to temperature fluctuations.
Zirconia vs E-max veneers
Dental veneers are shells that are placed onto the front surface of teeth to conceal any imperfections, cracks, or stains on teeth. There are several types of E-max and zirconia veneers available.
E-max Veneers
E-max Veneers are an ideal choice when the goal is achieving a picture-perfect smile. These veneers are very thin and blend seamlessly with adjacent teeth. To fit on teeth, these veneers require minimum teeth reduction. With proper Dental Care, they last from 15 to 20 years.
Zirconia Veneers
Patients with bruxism prefer strength over aesthetics. For strength, zirconia veneers are a better choice. They are a little bit thick as compared to E-max Veneers. Still, they are not bulky in appearance and provide greater fracture resistance. They can last about 20 years.
E-max vs zirconia crown
You can think of a crown as a tooth-shaped cap placed on decayed or damaged teeth. The crown procedure can improve the appearance of teeth. They can conceal broken, worn, or chipped teeth.
E-max crowns
E-max crowns are made of a ceramic material lithium disilicate which is metal-free. E-max crowns are highly popular because they are durable and resistant. But the biggest benefit of E-max crowns is their aesthetic appeal resembles the natural shine of teeth. They are more natural-looking.
Zirconia crowns
Compared to E-max crowns zirconia crowns have much higher strength and durability. Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide that exhibits exceptional strength. But it’s more opaque and offers less translucency. These crowns are suitable for posterior restorations and can withstand strong chewing forces.
FAQs
Which is better E-max or Zirconia?
Which material is suitable for you depends on your goals. If you prefer aesthetics and want a more radiant smile, E-max is the right choice. But if you suffer from bruxism or want more strength zirconia is ideal. So, E-max is for aesthetic appeal, and zirconia is for strength.
Which is more expensive E-max or Zirconia?
When it comes to dental crowns, veneers, and bridges E-max is more expensive.
What to prefer: E-max vs zirconia for front teeth?
For front teeth where appearance is usually preferred over strength, E-max is an ideal choice. With high translucency, E-max mimics the natural radiance of teeth.
What is the difference between E-max and zirconia crowns?
E-max dental crowns are made of lithium disilicate. In comparison to E-max vs zirconia crowns, the main difference lies in strength and appearance. E-max crowns have high translucency and zirconia crowns have much more durability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between E-max and zirconia depends on your specific needs. E-max is the go-to option if you prioritize aesthetics. It offers excellent translucency and a natural appearance, especially for visible restorations in the anterior region. Its ability to mimic the natural radiance of teeth makes it ideal for a beautiful, seamless smile. However, zirconia stands out for its superior strength and durability, making it the better choice for posterior restorations or patients with bruxism.
Both materials are biocompatible, but zirconia’s higher resistance to wear and tear makes it a more practical option in certain clinical situations. Ultimately, the right material for you will depend on the balance between aesthetics and functionality that aligns with your dental goals. Trusted by dental professionals worldwide, Aidite ensures that patients receive long-lasting, beautiful restorations that meet the highest standards in the industry.