EMax Veneers: Weighing the Pros and Cons
EMax veneers are a popular option for improving the look of your smile. But like all dental treatments, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider before getting emax veneers.
What are EMax Veneers?
EMax veneers are super thin shells made of lithium disilicate that bond to the front surface of teeth. They are custom-designed to precisely fit over your existing teeth.
The EMax material is durable, stain-resistant, and mimics the light refraction of natural tooth enamel. The veneers can cover chips, gaps, discoloration, and other flaws to create an even, bright smile.
The Pros of EMax Veneers
Here are some of the benefits that make emax veneers a popular dental restoration option:
1. Natural Appearance
One of the biggest pros of emax veneers is that they look very realistic. The translucent lithium disilicate material diffuses light naturally. This gives a lifelike luster and sheen.
The custom-fabrication ensures the veneers have a comfortable fit and flow with your other teeth. Skilled cosmetic dentists can match the shape, length, and color to your natural teeth.
2. Strong and Durable
EMax veneers are strong and long-lasting. The glass-ceramic material is stain and chip resistant. With proper oral care, emax veneers can last 10-15 years or longer before needing replacement.
The material is fracture-tough and able to withstand the forces from chewing and biting without cracking or breaking. They hold up well to daily wear.
3. Biocompatible Material
Lithium disilicate is highly biocompatible, meaning it’s safe for your body and well-tolerated. This helps the veneers integrate into your smile and avoids irritating surrounding gums or teeth.
There is very little risk of allergy or rejection. The bonding resin used to adhere the veneers is also biocompatible and commonly used for dental restorations.
4. Stain-Resistant
The EMax material repels stains well. While no dental restoration is 100% stain-proof, emax veneers resist absorption of coffee, tea, wine, and other chromogens.
This helps maintain their bright, white color for longer. Smokers may still contend with some surface staining and require whitening treatments periodically.
5. conservative Tooth Preparation
Since emax veneers are thin, they require minimal removal of natural tooth structure. Around 0.3-0.5mm of enamel is shaved off versus 1-2mm for porcelain veneers.
This is a more conservative preparation that preserves more of your natural tooth. There is less chance of sensitivity or underlying tooth damage.
6. Fast Procedure with Immediate Results
It takes just 2-3 dental visits to complete the emax veneer process. After an initial consultation, the veneers can be prepped and bonded in a single appointment. You’ll enjoy your results immediately.
Porcelain veneers often take longer since they must be fabricated by an offsite dental lab. EMax veneers can be milled efficiently right at the dentist’s office.
7. Excellent for Minor Imperfections
Because they are thin, emax veneers work exceptionally well for minor cosmetic flaws. Small gaps, chips, rotations, or worn enamel can be readily improved with emax veneers.
They allow a fast refresh of your smile without aggressive reshaping procedures. The thinness keeps tooth structure intact.
8. Resists Plaque Buildup
The smooth finish of emax veneers discourages plaque accumulation and bacteria compared to natural teeth. This reduces the risk for cavities and gum disease.
However, you must still brush and floss daily to prevent periodontal problems. Professional cleanings are also still needed.
The Cons of EMax Veneers
While emax veneers have many pros, there are also some disadvantages to consider:
1. Higher Cost
Emax veneers are typically more expensive than other options like composite resin bonding or porcelain veneers. Each custom emax veneer costs $700-$1500 or more per tooth.
The total cost for your smile makeover depends on how many veneers you need. Insurance may cover a portion of the cost if there is a medical necessity.
2. Irreversible Procedure
Getting emax veneers involves permanently altering the structure of your natural teeth. A small amount of enamel is removed so the veneers can bond.
This process is not reversible. If you later want to remove the veneers, some underlying tooth damage may have occurred.
3. Potential Damage to Veneer
While emax material is strong, the thin veneers can still chip, crack or break if subjected to heavy force, trauma or grinding your teeth. Clenching or biting on hard objects may damage them.
You must avoid chewing hard foods and ice. Damaged veneers cannot be repaired and must be fully replaced.
4. Gum Sensitivity
Your gums may be sensitive for a few days after the minor preparation needed for emax veneers. Proper anesthetic and gentle tooth reduction minimize discomfort.
Some people experience temperature sensitivity that subsides after the gums have healed. Using desensitizing toothpaste can provide relief.
5. Potential for Discoloration at Gum Line
The emax veneers can become slightly discolored at the border adjacent to your gums. A thin dark line may develop due to a phenomenon called microleakage.
Proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings help reduce the chance of microleakage discoloration occurring.
6. Need for Ongoing Dental Visits
You must see your dentist for periodic check ups and cleanings to maintain emax veneers. Neglecting proper care raises the chance of decay at the veneer edges or periodontal disease.
Typically dental visits every 6 months are recommended. Good home oral care is still a must.
7. Not a Permanent Restoration
While emax veneers can last 10-15 years with proper care, they are not a permanent solution. The veneers will eventually need replacing when they exhibit excessive wear, damage, or other flaws.
The original preparation of your teeth allows new veneers to be readily placed. However, ongoing maintenance is necessary over time.
Ideal Candidates for EMax Veneers
The right candidate for emax veneers typically has:
- Mild to moderate tooth flaws or discoloration
- Sufficient enamel for conservative tooth preparation
- Healthy gums and oral hygiene habits
- Realistic expectations about results
- The budget for the cost of treatment
Those with extensive tooth damage, decay, or gum disease may not be suitable for emax veneers.
Combining EMax Veneers with Other Treatments
EMax veneers can be used along with other dental treatments for enhanced results. Some options include:
- Teeth Whitening - Whitening before veneers maximizes overall brightness.
- Dental Bonding - Small repairs make flaws less extensive before veneers.
FAQs
How long do emax veneers last?
With proper care, emax veneers can last 10-15 years or longer before needing replacement. Avoiding biting hard objects and getting regular dental checkups helps maintain them.
Do emax veneers look natural?
Yes, emax veneers look very natural due to the translucent material that mimics light reflection in real teeth. Custom-fabrication and color-matching also enhances the realistic appearance.
Are emax veneers painful?
No, getting emax veneers does not hurt. The tooth preparation required before bonding is minimized. Your dentist will use anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Can you chew with emax veneers?
Yes, you can chew with emax veneers. However, you should avoid chewing excessively hard foods or biting hard objects which could damage the thin veneers.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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