Bottom line: E.max (lithium disilicate) and zirconia are the two premium ceramic materials used for veneers, crowns, and bridges worldwide. Both are excellent — the choice depends on which teeth are being restored and your specific priorities around aesthetics versus strength.
Material Comparison
| Property | E.max (Lithium Disilicate) | Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | 400 MPa — strong for single restorations | 900–1,200 MPa — strongest ceramic available |
| Aesthetics | Superior — excellent translucency mimics natural enamel | Good — newer multilayer zirconia approaches e.max quality |
| Best for | Front teeth (veneers, crowns) where appearance matters most | Back teeth (molars), bridges, and high-stress areas |
| Thickness required | 0.3–0.5mm for veneers — very conservative prep | 0.5–1.0mm — slightly more tooth reduction needed |
| Longevity | 15–20+ years | 15–25+ years |
| Fracture risk | Low for front teeth, moderate for molars under heavy bite | Very low — extremely fracture-resistant |
| Colombia cost per unit | $250–$500 | $200–$450 |
| US cost per unit | $1,000–$2,500 | $1,000–$2,000 |
The Simple Rule
E.max for the front (where you need beauty), zirconia for the back (where you need strength). For full-mouth restorations, many clinics use both — e.max on the visible anterior teeth and zirconia on the molars. This combination gives you the best of both worlds.
Colombian dental labs work with both materials daily and have invested in the milling technology (3Shape, Exocad, CEREC) that produces precise, well-fitting restorations. The lab technicians crafting your veneers or crowns are highly skilled — dental lab work is a respected profession in Colombia with rigorous training.
Questions About Materials?
Your dentist will recommend the right material based on your specific case. Start with a free consultation.
Get Free ConsultationRead more: Veneers Guide | Crowns Guide | How Many Veneers?