Decatur AL e.max Crowns

For durable and natural-looking dental crowns, we offer e.max crowns as an effective tooth restoration option for our patients.

Crowns are ideal for patients who want to protect, preserve, or improve the appearance of damaged, disfigured, or stained teeth. They can also be used in combination with other restoration techniques for a cosmetic smile makeover. To help you determine whether an e.max crown may be right for you, Dr. Drake and Dr. Wallace have outlined some of the pros and cons of this tooth restoration technology.

What Is an e.max Crown?

What Are the Advantages of e.max Crowns?

The main advantage of this type of crown is its high-strength ceramic core. The core ceramic is lithium disilicate, which combines crystalized silica and crystalline fillers into a type of glass material. While the core is very strong, it is of a single color. To be able to match your teeth and look as lifelike as possible, a thin layer of porcelain is fused over this sub-structure. The result is a beautiful crown that is virtually indistinguishable from your own teeth.

Porcelain, while it is very hard, is brittle, and under stress it will fracture rather than bend. Lithium disilicate, on the other hand, has what is called flexural strength, meaning that it will bend some rather than break. This reduces the rate of fracturing and chipping as compared to pure porcelain crowns. The core is also milled by computer, providing a more exact fit. Lithium disilicate also enables a strong, resilient bond between the crown and the underlying tooth structure.

e.max Crowns vs. Other Porcelain Crowns

Our commitment to metal-free dentistry means you have options when it comes to choosing the type of porcelain crown that’s best for you. Dr. Drake and Dr. Wallace will work with you to determine whether an e.max crown is right for you.

Because this material provides a superior level of aesthetics and a nearly identical match to your natural teeth, we typically recommend e.max crowns for highly visible anterior restorations, such as your front teeth.

Alternatives, including zirconia crowns, have some aesthetic limitations. So, while that may be a good alternative for restorations in the back of your mouth, an e.max crown provides an ideal solution for restoring a healthy, functional and natural-looking smile.

This technology does have a few drawbacks, which can affect its suitability in some restoration scenarios. For example, e.max crowns are not always the best choice for supporting dental bridges, requiring a larger connector area than zirconia crowns. In some situations, this material can abrade the enamel on the opposing teeth more than, say, zirconia.

We invite you to learn more about your restoration options on our Porcelain Crowns page. When you’re ready to learn more about preserving your natural teeth with a strong and beautiful e.max crown, you can call us to schedule a consultation or request an appointment through our online form.