Zirconia vs E-Max Restorations: What’s Best for Full Mouth Rehab?

Not all crowns are created equal. Here’s how Zirconia and E-Max compare for full arch dental implants.

Why Material Matters in Full Mouth Reconstruction

Choosing the right material for your crowns or bridges is just as important as the implants themselves. It affects:

• Strength and longevity

• Appearance and translucency

• Comfort and biocompatibility

At HospitalOne, we offer both Zirconia and E-Max to suit different needs, aesthetics, and bite forces.

Related: Full Mouth Reconstruction in the UK: Options, Costs & What to Expect

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What is Zirconia?

Zirconia is a high-strength ceramic known for:

• Exceptional durability

• Fracture resistance

• Ideal for molars and bridges

• Opaque but natural-looking appearance

Zirconia is often chosen for the back teeth where strength and resistance to wear are critical.

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What is E-Max?

E-Max is a lithium disilicate ceramic prized for:

• High translucency

• Lifelike aesthetics

• Great for front teeth or smile zones

• Moderate strength with superior looks

E-Max is commonly used where cosmetic appearance is the top priority.

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Comparison Table

Feature	Zirconia	E-Max
Strength	Very high	Moderate to high
Aesthetics	Opaque, natural finish	Highly translucent
Best For	Molars, bridges, implant arches	Front teeth, veneers
Durability	Superior, fracture-resistant	Excellent, less strong than Zirconia
Processing	CAD/CAM milled	CAD/CAM or pressable

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Which Should You Choose?

It depends on:

• Where the teeth are located (front vs back)

• Your bite force and oral habits (e.g. bruxism)

• Desired appearance

Often, we use a hybrid approach: E-Max in visible zones for beauty, and Zirconia in stress-bearing areas for strength.

Every patient at HospitalOne receives a material plan based on CBCT and digital scan analysis.

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Talk to Us About Your Smile Goals

Request Your Custom Plan

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FAQs

• Is Zirconia better than E-Max?

  Not necessarily. Zirconia is stronger; E-Max is more translucent. The best choice depends on the location and function.

• Can I combine both materials in my mouth

  Yes. Many full arch restorations use a mix for the best results in different areas.

• Do these materials stain or chip?

  Both resist staining. E-Max may chip if exposed to very high pressure, which is why placement is important.

• Is there a big cost difference?

  Not usually. Both are premium materials, and we’ll help match the right one to your goals and budget.