E.max (Lithium Disilicate)

Lithium disilicate is stronger than other glass-based ceramics and more translucent than zirconia. Its available translucency levels allow the material to be used across a wider range of anterior indications than leucite-based ceramics.

Lithium disilicate is used for single full-coverage crowns and for anterior restorations. It is also available as an alternative to lithium silicate and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate, which have similar properties and indications.

Alternatives include feldspathic porcelain, leucite-based ceramics, zirconia, lithium silicate and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate. These materials do not have identical strength, translucency or indications.

A lithium disilicate restoration is fabricated as an indirect restoration rather than placed directly onto the tooth. Its selected translucency and strength class affect whether it suits the planned crown or other restoration.

Reported failure factors for lithium disilicate full-coverage restorations include microorganism infiltration, recurrent caries, pulpal lesions, periodontal inflammation and cement exposure to the mouth. Clinical studies also track caries, post-operative sensitivity and periodontal changes.