E.max veneers are porcelain veneers made from lithium disilicate, a glass-ceramic made by Ivoclar under the IPS e.max name. Dentists often choose it because it combines a natural, translucent look with more strength than many traditional porcelains. Here is what that means for you, and when E.max may or may not be the right material.
What Is E.max?
“Porcelain” covers several dental ceramics. E.max is one of them: a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic that can be pressed or milled into very thin, precise shapes. A ceramist then stains, glazes or layers it to match your natural teeth.
At our practice, E.max is one of the materials our dentists and Cosmetique Dental’s in-house ceramists use for porcelain veneers. See porcelain veneers.
Why Dentists Use E.max for Veneers
- Strength. E.max is stronger than many traditional feldspathic porcelains, which helps veneers resist chipping.
- Natural appearance. It lets light pass through in a similar way to enamel, so it can look lifelike, especially at the edges.
- Thin designs. Because it is strong, E.max veneers can often be made thin, which may mean less tooth preparation in suitable cases.
- Precise fit. Pressing or milling gives accurate margins, which helps the veneer seal well against the tooth.
- Bonds well. E.max bonds strongly to enamel with modern adhesive cements.
E.max vs Other Veneer Materials
| E.max (lithium disilicate) | Traditional feldspathic porcelain | Composite resin | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | High | Moderate | Lower |
| Appearance | Natural, translucent | Highly aesthetic; very thin layers | Good; can dull over time |
| Stain resistance | High | High | Lower |
| Made | In the lab | In the lab | Directly on the tooth |
| Repairs | Usually replaced if chipped | Usually replaced if chipped | Usually repaired in the chair |
Each material has its place. Your dentist will recommend one based on your teeth, bite and the look you want. Compare porcelain and composite in our porcelain vs composite guide.
Who E.max Veneers May Suit
E.max veneers may suit people who:
- want to change shape, length or colour across several front teeth;
- want a longer-lasting, stain-resistant option than composite;
- have healthy teeth and gums;
- have a stable bite, or wear a night guard if they grind.
They may not suit people with active gum disease, unmanaged heavy grinding, or teeth that need to be moved rather than covered. In those cases, treatment such as gum care, a night guard or Invisalign may come first.
How E.max Veneers Are Made at Our Practice
The process follows the usual porcelain veneer steps: consultation, smile design, preparation, temporaries, laboratory work and bonding. Read the porcelain veneer process, step by step.
The difference at Cosmetique Dental is that the ceramists are part of the group. Your dentist can review the shade and design with the ceramist making your veneers, and small changes can be made without sending the work to an outside laboratory.
How Long Do E.max Veneers Last?
With good care, E.max veneers can last many years, though no veneer lasts forever and lifespan varies. Grinding, biting hard objects, decay at the edges and gum disease can shorten their life. Regular check-ups and a night guard if you grind help protect them.
At Sydney Dental Veneers, E.max veneers come with a 5-year limited warranty. Conditions apply, including regular check-ups and cleans. Ask for the terms at your consultation, or see the dental veneer package.
What Do E.max Veneers Cost?
Porcelain veneers at our practice, including E.max, are around $1,400–$1,500 per tooth when paid upfront. Your total depends on how many teeth are treated and any care needed first. Interest-free payment plans are available from $57/week, subject to approval. See the veneer cost guide and payment plans.
Book a Consultation
To find out whether E.max veneers suit your teeth, book a complimentary cosmetic consultation at Suite 302, Level 3, 70 Pitt Street, Sydney CBD. Call (02) 8090 1105 or book online.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are E.max veneers made of?
Lithium disilicate, a strong glass-ceramic sold as IPS e.max. It is pressed or milled, then stained or layered to match your teeth.
Are E.max veneers better than other porcelain veneers?
Not always. E.max is strong and natural-looking, which suits many cases, but your dentist may recommend another material for your teeth and bite.
Do E.max veneers need tooth preparation?
Usually some, though E.max can often be made thin. The amount depends on your teeth and the planned result, and enamel removal cannot be reversed.
How much are E.max veneers in Sydney?
At our practice, porcelain veneers including E.max are around $1,400–$1,500 per tooth. Payment plans start from $57/week, subject to approval.
Do E.max veneers come with a warranty?
Yes. They come with a 5-year limited warranty; conditions apply, including regular check-ups and cleans.