Lithium Disilicate Dental Crown

What Is A Lithium Disilicate Crown?

When it comes to dental restorations, a Lithium Disilicate crown (also known as an E-max crown) is an increasingly popular choice among dental professionals and patients alike. This all ceramic dental crown material offers a combination of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it an excellent option for restoring damaged or compromised teeth.

Before you deciding on whether A Lithium Disilicate Crown is right for you, there are some things you should know:

Who Needs A Lithium Disilicate Crown?
What Are The Advantages Of A Lithium Disilicate Crown?
What Are The Alternatives To A Lithium Disilicate Crown?
How Much Does A Lithium Disilicate Crown Cost?
What Are The Steps In The Lithium Disilicate Crown Procedure?
Can I Have A Lithium Disilicate Crown If I Am Pregnant?
How Long Does A Lithium Disilicate Crown Last?
What Are Common Problems with A Lithium Disilicate Crown?

If you have any further questions about A Lithium Disilicate Crown or other dental services offered at Atlas Dental, please contact us.

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Who Needs A Lithium Disilicate Crown?

When it comes to dental restorations, Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crowns can be an ideal solution for various dental conditions:

Damaged or Decayed Teeth: Individuals with teeth that have significant damage or decay can benefit from Lithium Disilicate crowns. These crowns provide strength and durability, restoring the function and appearance of the affected teeth.
Fractured or Cracked Teeth: Teeth that have suffered fractures or cracks can be effectively restored with Lithium Disilicate crowns. The lithium disilicate provides stability and support, while the porcelain overlay restores the tooth’s natural appearance.
Teeth with Large Fillings: Teeth with large fillings that need to be replaced or reinforced can benefit from Lithium Disilicate crowns. The crowns cover the entire tooth, providing added strength and protecting against further damage.
Severely Worn Down Teeth: Teeth that have been extensively worn down due to grinding or other factors can regain their function and aesthetics with Lithium Disilicate crowns. The crowns restore the tooth’s original shape and protect it from further wear.
Root Canal Treated Teeth: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment often require additional support and protection. Lithium Disilicate crowns can strengthen and seal the treated tooth, preventing any future infections.
Misshapen or Discolored Teeth: Lithium Disilicate crowns are an excellent option for individuals with misshapen or severely discolored teeth that do not respond to traditional whitening methods. The crowns can create a uniform and natural-looking smile.
Esthetic Concerns: Lithium Disilicate crowns can address esthetic concerns, such as gaps between teeth or asymmetrical smiles. By customizing the color and shape of the porcelain overlay, the crowns can enhance the overall appearance of the smile.

It’s important to note that the specific treatment recommendation will depend on an individual’s unique dental condition. Consulting with a qualified dentist is crucial to determine if a Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crown is the best option for you. If you have further questions about Lithium Disilicate Crowns, please contact us.

What Are The Advantages Of A Lithium Disilicate Crown?

Lithium disilicate (Emax) crowns provide the best balance between strength and aesthetics. The benefits of a Lithium Disilicate crown include:

Exceptional Strength and Durability: Lithium disilicate crowns are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability, making them highly resistant to fractures and chipping. This ensures a long-lasting restoration that can withstand the forces of chewing and biting.
Natural Aesthetics and Translucency: One of the key advantages of a Lithium Disilicate crown is its ability to mimic the natural appearance of teeth. The material exhibits excellent translucency, enabling it to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth, resulting in a beautiful and natural-looking smile.
Precise Color Matching: Dental professionals can accurately match the color of a Lithium Disilicate crown to the patient’s natural teeth. They also provide a level of natural-looking translucency that zirconia crowns cannot match. This level of precision ensures that the crown seamlessly integrates with the smile, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing result.
Conservative Tooth Preparation: Compared to some other types of dental crowns, the preparation required for a Lithium Disilicate crown is relatively conservative. This means that less natural tooth structure needs to be removed, resulting in a more conservative and minimally invasive procedure.
Biocompatibility: Lithium disilicate is a biocompatible material, meaning it is well-tolerated by the body and unlikely to cause adverse reactions or sensitivities. This makes it a suitable choice for patients with sensitivities or allergies to other dental materials.
Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, Lithium Disilicate crowns can last for many years. Their exceptional durability and resistance to wear ensure a long lifespan, providing patients with a reliable and long-term dental restoration.

Incorporating the advantages of Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crowns into your dental restoration decision-making process can lead to a reliable, aesthetically pleasing, and long-lasting solution. Consult with your dentist to determine if these crowns are the right choice for your specific dental needs and goals. If you have further questions about the benefits of a Lithium Disilicate Crown, please contact us.

What Are The Alternatives To A Lithium Disilicate Crown?

Alternatives to Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crowns include:

Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are the newest type of all-ceramic crown known for their exceptional strength and durability. Made from a white coloured and biocompatible material called zirconium oxide, these crowns offer excellent aesthetics, resistance to chipping, and compatibility with individuals who may have metal allergies.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns consist of a metal substructure covered with a layer of porcelain. They offer strength and natural aesthetics, combining the durability of the metal with the esthetic appeal of the porcelain. However, the presence of metal may lead to a visible grayish line at the gumline in some cases. They also tend to be more labor-intensive and are more costly to fabricate as a result.
Gold Crowns: Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for many years due to their exceptional strength and biocompatibility. While gold crowns are highly durable and well-tolerated by the body, their distinct gold color may not appeal to patients seeking a natural-looking restoration. Moreover, the high price of gold can make this option cost-prohibitive.

It’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable alternative to a Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crown based on your specific dental needs, preferences, and budget. Your dentist will consider factors such as tooth location, esthetic requirements, durability, and your overall oral health when recommending the most appropriate crown material. If you have further questions about all your options including a Lithium Disilicate Crown, please contact us.

Cost of Dental Crown

The cost of a Dental Crown include the dentist’s professional fee ($1140), plus the dental laboratory’s fee ( approximately $200-500) in making the crown. The codes relevant to dental crowns in the Ontario Dental Association’s Suggested Fee Guide appear as follows:

Crowns, Porcelain/Ceramic/Polymer Glass

27201 – Crown, Porcelain/Ceramic/Polymer Glass: $1140 + Dental Lab Fee ($200-500)

There are a variety of dental crown materials to choose from. Some are more expensive than others. The three most common dental crown types listed in order from least expensive to most expensive are:

All Ceramic crowns including Zirconia crowns and Lithium disilicate crowns
Porcelain fused to metal crowns
Full metal crowns, including Gold crowns

The Ontario Dental Association’s Suggested Fee Guide is a proposed fee structure that dentists in Ontario may or may not follow. Please consult with your dentist about fees before going ahead with treatment.

Dental crowns are considered a major restorative service under all dental insurance plans and may or may not be covered by your dental insurance. Be sure to find out from your dental insurance plan provider how much you are eligible for before going ahead with dental treatment. Your dentist can help you submit an predetermination to your dental insurance.

For patients without dental insurance, Atlas Dental is pleased to offer dental financing through Dentalcard. Affordable payment plans start at 7.95% for terms of 6 months to 6 years. To learn more about Dentalcard dental treatment financing, follow this link.

What Are The Steps In The Lithium Disilicate Crown Procedure?

A Lithium Disilicate (Emax) Crown typically is done in two visits:

First Appointment:

Consultation and Examination: Your dentist will assess the structural integrity of the tooth in question, take necessary dental x-rays, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if a Lithium Disilicate crown is the right option for you. Please review these pre-operative instructions before your visit.
Tooth Preparation: The tooth receiving the crown will be prepared by removing a thin layer of enamel to accommodate the crown’s thickness. Up to 2mm of the outer surface is removed for a Lithium Disilicate crown.
Impressions: Precise impressions of your prepared tooth and neighboring teeth will be taken to create a custom-fit Lithium Disilicate crown. Impressions can be taken either digitally with an intraoral computer scanner or with traditional polyvinylsiloxane impression materials.
Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown will be placed on the prepared tooth to protect it while your permanent Lithium Disilicate crown is being fabricated.

Second Appointment:

Removal of Temporary Crown: The temporary crown will be carefully removed, and the underlying tooth will be cleaned and prepared for the permanent crown.
Crown Fit and Adjustments: Your dentist will check the fit and appearance of the Lithium Disilicate crown. Adjustments may be made to ensure proper alignment, bite, and esthetics.
Crown Bonding: Once the perfect fit is achieved, your dentist will bond the Lithium Disilicate crown securely to your tooth using dental cement or adhesive.
Final Polish and Bite Evaluation: The Lithium Disilicate crown will be polished to give it a natural shine. Your dentist will also evaluate your bite to ensure proper occlusion and make any necessary adjustments. Please review these post-insertion instructions to ensure proper care for your new dental crown.

The first appointment usually takes 1 hour to accomplish, and the second appointment can take up to 30 minutes. If you have further questions about how we make your Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crown, please contact us.

Can I Have A Lithium Disilicate Crown If I Am Pregnant?

During pregnancy, many dental treatments can be safely performed, including the placement of a Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crown. However, it is essential to consider certain factors and precautions to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Consult Your Obstetrician: Before undergoing any dental procedure, including receiving a Lithium Disilicate crown, it is crucial to consult with your obstetrician. They can provide specific guidance based on your unique health condition and the stage of your pregnancy.
Timing: Ideally, elective dental treatments, such as cosmetic procedures, are best deferred until after pregnancy. However, if the need for a Lithium Disilicate crown is urgent, it may be considered during pregnancy after consulting with your healthcare providers.
Local Anesthetics: Local anesthesia, which is commonly used during dental procedures, is generally safe during pregnancy. Your dentist will choose an appropriate anesthetic with minimal systemic absorption to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
Stress and Discomfort: Dental treatments can be stressful and uncomfortable, especially during pregnancy. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy so that they can provide additional support, such as breaks during the procedure, to ensure your comfort.
Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during pregnancy. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and attending dental check-ups. Proper oral care can help prevent or manage dental issues and reduce the need for extensive treatments, including Lithium Disilicate crowns.

Always communicate openly with your dentist about your pregnancy and any concerns you may have. They will work closely with you and your healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care while considering the safety of you and your baby. If you have further questions about having a Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crown made during pregnancy, please contact us.

How Long Does A Lithium Disilicate Crown Last?

Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crowns are known for their exceptional durability and longevity. Under normal circumstances and with routine care, Lithium Disilicate crowns can last between 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance. Several factors can influence the lifespan of a Lithium Disilicate crown. Here are some key points to consider:

Material Quality: High-quality Lithium Disilicate crowns, fabricated using advanced manufacturing techniques and quality materials, tend to have a longer lifespan. Opting for a reputable dental laboratory and working with an experienced dentist can contribute to the longevity of your Lithium Disilicate crown.
Oral Hygiene Practices: Proper oral hygiene plays a vital role in the longevity of any dental restoration, including Lithium Disilicate crowns. Maintaining regular brushing, flossing, and attending dental check-ups will help prevent plaque buildup and minimize the risk of decay or gum disease around the crown.
Bite Forces and Habits: Excessive grinding or clenching of the teeth, also known as bruxism, can put excessive stress on Lithium Disilicate crowns. It is important to manage any teeth grinding habits and consider using a nightguard if necessary to protect the crown and prolong its lifespan.
Diet and Lifestyle: Certain dietary habits, such as consuming hard or sticky foods, can potentially damage Lithium Disilicate crowns. Avoid biting on hard objects or chewing on ice to prevent fractures or chipping. Additionally, practicing a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, can contribute to the longevity of your crown.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine dental visits allow your dentist to assess the condition of your Lithium Disilicate crown and detect any potential issues early on. Regular professional cleanings help maintain the health of the surrounding teeth and gums, further supporting the longevity of the crown.

It is important to note that individual experiences may vary depending on the factors mentioned above. Regular monitoring and maintenance by your dentist will ensure the optimal lifespan of your Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crown. If you have further questions about the longevity of your Lithium Disilicate crown, please contact us.

What Are Common Problems With A Lithium Disilicate Crown?

Issues with Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crowns are rare but can happen. These are the most common problems that patients can encounter with a Lithium Disilicate crown:

Crown Dislodgement: In rare cases, a Lithium Disilicate crown may become dislodged due to improper bonding or excessive force. If this occurs, it is important to contact your dentist immediately to have the crown repositioned and bonded back in place.
Fractures or Chipping: While Lithium Disilicate crowns are highly durable, they are not entirely immune to fractures or chipping. Trauma, accidents, or biting on hard objects can potentially cause damage to the crown. If you notice any signs of fractures or chipping, seek prompt dental care to assess and repair the crown.
Marginal Leakage: Marginal leakage refers to the formation of gaps or spaces between the Lithium Disilicate crown and the underlying tooth structure. This can allow bacteria and food debris to accumulate, leading to potential decay or gum problems. Regular dental check-ups are important to detect and address any marginal leakage issues.
Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after receiving a Lithium Disilicate crown. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few weeks as the tooth adjusts to the new restoration. If the sensitivity persists or worsens, consult your dentist for evaluation.
Esthetic Issues: Lithium Disilicate crowns, like any dental restoration, may have esthetic limitations. While they closely resemble natural teeth, slight variations in color or translucency may exist, especially in cases with significant color discrepancies. Your dentist will work with you to achieve the best possible esthetic outcome.
Gum Irritation: In some cases, the placement of a Lithium Disilicate crown may cause temporary gum irritation or inflammation. This can occur if the crown’s margin is not properly contoured or if there is an improper fit. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental visits can help prevent or manage gum-related issues.

It’s important to note that while these problems can occur with Lithium Disilicate (Emax) crowns, they are relatively uncommon. With proper treatment planning, skilled craftsmanship, and diligent oral care, many of these issues can be prevented or effectively addressed. Regular dental check-ups and open communication with your dentist will help ensure the long-term success and satisfaction of your Lithium Disilicate crown. If you have further questions about common problems with Lithium Disilicate crowns, please contact us.