Ceramics and Prosthetics
Ivoclar
Ivoclar is a dental materials company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Schaan, Liechtenstein. It has spent more than a century developing products for dentists and dental laboratories, and its materials now reach around 130 countries. The company specialises in ceramic systems, filling materials and prosthetic solutions. Its IPS e.max family of lithium disilicate glass ceramics is widely used around the world for crowns and veneers.
Use at the clinic
Ivoclar materials are used for crowns, veneers and implant-supported restorations. IPS e.max glass ceramic is a common choice for front teeth because it transmits light much like natural enamel. When back teeth need extra strength, IPS e.max ZirCAD zirconia is used instead.
Strengths
Natural-looking results
IPS e.max glass ceramic lets light pass through in a way that closely resembles a natural tooth. Crowns and veneers blend in with the teeth around them.
Metal-free construction
There is no metal framework inside the crown. The grey line that can appear at the gumline with metal-backed crowns does not occur with this material.
One system for many needs
The Press and CAD glass ceramics and ZirCAD zirconia all belong to the same product family. That covers everything from front-tooth aesthetics to the strength back teeth need.
Designed for digital workflows
IPS e.max blocks are made to be milled in CAD/CAM systems. From digital scan to finished crown, the process is precise and predictable.
Points to consider
A premium-segment material
Ivoclar ceramics sit in the premium segment. Your choice of material can affect the overall scope of your treatment plan, and the options are talked through at your consultation.
Not the answer for every case
Glass ceramic is not always the right choice. For long bridges, or if you grind or clench your teeth, a stronger option such as zirconia may be more suitable.
Relies on skilled lab work
Good results depend on an experienced dental laboratory and careful firing stages. This can add a few days of waiting between appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does an e.max crown last?
- With good daily care and regular check-ups, an e.max crown can serve you well for many years. Its lifespan depends on your bite, whether you grind your teeth and how well you look after it.
- What is the difference between e.max and zirconia?
- E.max is a glass ceramic with high translucency, which makes it a common choice for front teeth. Zirconia is stronger and better suited to back teeth and bridges. Which one fits your case is assessed at your consultation.
- Do e.max crowns contain metal?
- No, they are entirely ceramic. That is why the grey shadow sometimes seen at the gumline with metal-backed crowns does not develop with e.max.
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Let's find the right system for you
The right brand and system for you becomes clear after a clinical assessment. Reach out to our team with any questions.