WHY IPS E.MAX GLASS CERAMIC OUTPERFORMS ALL OTHER MATERIALS

The Superiority of IPS e.max Lithium Disilicate

In the field of restorative dentistry, IPS e.max lithium disilicate glass-ceramic has consistently outperformed other materials, including gold. Its advanced composition and application technique offer unmatched durability, aesthetics, and long-term clinical success. One key factor behind its superior performance lies in its ability to be placed using an adhesive luting protocol.

The Role of Adhesive Luting in Enhancing Bond Strength

Unlike conventional cementation techniques, IPS e.max restorations are adhesively luted, a process that significantly enhances their bond strength and longevity. The adhesive luting protocol involves several crucial steps:

1. 1. Hydrofluoric Acid Etching: This step removes the glassy phase from the ceramic surface, creating a micro-porous structure that improves adhesion.
   2. Silanization: The application of silane promotes chemical bonding between the ceramic and resin cement.
   3. Phosphoric Acid Etching: The tooth surface is etched with phosphoric acid, improving retention by increasing surface roughness.
   4. Application of Tetric N-Bond Universal: A single-component adhesive that is light-cured for both direct and indirect bonding procedures and compatible with all etching protocols.
   5. Luting with Variolink Esthetic LC: This high-performance resin cement ensures a strong and durable bond between the restoration and the natural tooth structure.

Dual Benefits of Adhesive Luting

1. The Strongest Documented Bond in Dentistry

The adhesive luting protocol ensures an exceptionally strong bond between the IPS e.max restoration and the natural tooth structure. This reduces micro-motion, micro-leakage, and bacterial contamination, ultimately enhancing long-term clinical outcomes. By minimizing bacterial infiltration, the risk of secondary caries and restoration failure is significantly reduced.

2. Strength Enhancement of the Ceramic

Interestingly, adhesive luting does not just improve the bond to the tooth; it also enhances the mechanical properties of IPS e.max lithium disilicate itself. Studies have shown that the ceramic becomes even stronger after adhesive luting, demonstrating improved performance in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. This increased durability ensures greater resistance to wear and fracture, making IPS e.max an ideal choice for a wide range of restorations, including crowns, veneers, inlays, and onlays.

Clinical Evidence Supporting IPS e.max

Scientific research and long-term clinical studies have consistently validated the superior performance of IPS e.max. Notably, a study focusing on biologic outcomes and the incidence of endodontic therapy revealed that patients receiving IPS e.max crowns, inlays, or onlays had significantly lower rates of post-operative complications. This underscores its role as a reliable and effective solution for both dentists and patients.

Conclusion

The combination of high strength, superior aesthetics, and the advantages of adhesive luting makes IPS e.max lithium disilicate the material of choice for modern restorative dentistry. Its ability to form an exceptionally strong bond with the tooth while simultaneously increasing its own mechanical properties sets it apart from other restorative materials. Dentists seeking long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing, and minimally invasive restorative solutions can confidently rely on IPS e.max for optimal clinical results.