Not All Crowns Are Created Equal: Why E.max Could Be the Best Choice for Your Smile
Dental crowns are an important treatment option that addresses damaged or weakened teeth, but not all of them offer the same results. There are a variety of looks and feels when it comes to dental crowns, which can make choosing the right one complex.
Recently, e.max crowns have found their way to the top of the crown popularity list in Montana because of the beauty and strength they provide. If you’re in need of dental crowns, take a closer look at what e.max is and why it could be the solution you’re looking for.
What is an e.max crown?
An e.max crown is a dental treatment made from a very strong and translucent material called lithium disilicate. This translucency makes it a popular choice for front teeth, while its strength makes it just as desirable for back teeth that need to handle a lot of pressure.
The monolithic block of lithium disilicate glass-ceramic that they’re made from allows them to be resistant to chipping and cracking. Despite their strength, these crowns are lightweight options that don’t feel uncomfortable.
Another benefit of e.max crowns is that they don’t require a large amount of tooth preparation. That preserves more of your natural tooth structure.
How e.max Stacks Up Against Other Crown Materials
When deciding on whether e.max crowns are the right option, it can help to compare them against other common choices, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal, zirconia, and gold crowns.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal vs. e.max Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns have been, until now, some of the most natural-looking options. They still have a metal substructure, however, and that can peek through near the gum line. With e.max crowns, you get uniform translucency, allowing the crown to match your natural teeth perfectly.
Although PFM crowns have a metal core, porcelain can still chip. The lithium disilicate that e.max crowns are made of is much stronger.
Zirconia vs. e.max Crowns
Zirconia crowns are more opaque than e.max ones, making them less translucent and therefore less natural-looking. Zirconia may be better for molars because of the material’s strength, but e.max crowns are more appropriate for visible teeth.
Additionally, zirconia requires a bit more tooth structure to be present. With e.max crowns, you can expect them to bond easily with even a small amount of natural structure.
Gold Crowns vs. e.max Crowns
Gold crowns don’t offer the natural-looking results that most people prefer for visible teeth. They might be appropriate for back teeth, but they’ll still be noticeable.
Gold crowns are also often an expensive option. Although e.max crowns can be a bit higher in upfront cost than zirconia or PFM crowns, they still represent a better option price-wise than gold.
The Visual Advantage: Why e.max Looks So Natural
E.max crowns are made of a material that mimics natural teeth. It has the gleam of enamel and can be customized to match the exact hue of your other teeth. Because these crowns are made entirely of lithium disilicate, there are no metal components that could create shades or a grayish line by the gums.
Another key reason e.max crowns look so natural is that they are crafted with the latest technology. They can be made into a highly precise shape that fits over the tooth perfectly while remaining harmonious with the teeth next to it.
It’s also possible to craft these crowns with a bit of texture, enhancing their natural look. That’s why e.max is often the right choice if you need crowns for front teeth or for any teeth in visible locations.
When e.max Might Be the Best Choice for You
E.max crowns can be especially beneficial for people who need a single-tooth restoration, as well as those who are focused on getting the most aesthetically pleasing option. Because they are durable, e.max crowns give you the peace of mind you’re looking for as well.
If you’re not sure whether this is the type of crown you can benefit the most from, Dr. Spencer can conduct a thorough assessment of your smile and recommend the option that would work best for your needs.
Restore Your Tooth and Your Confidence
You don’t have to feel self-conscious about a damaged tooth. With modern cosmetic dentistry solutions like e.max crowns, you can restore the look of your smile while also protecting your teeth from further damage.
At Stephen J. Spencer, DDS, we offer comprehensive dentistry services, including family dentistry. Our team uses the latest techniques and state-of-the-art technology to create durable, long-lasting crowns that look just like the real thing. If you’re searching for an experienced and friendly dentist in Great Falls, contact our team today.