The material choice for veneers affects every aspect of the restoration: preparation depth, translucency, strength, cementation protocol, and long-term survival.
Lithium Disilicate (E.max)
- Translucency: Excellent — the most natural-looking anterior restoration material.
- Strength: 360-400 MPa flexural strength, adequate for anterior veneers.
- Minimum thickness: 0.3mm (pressed), 0.5mm (milled).
- Cementation: Adhesive bonding required. Silanization pretreatment essential.
- Survival rate: 94-96% at 10 years for anterior veneers.
Zirconia
- Translucency: Good with newer high-translucency formulations, but less vital than E.max.
- Strength: 900-1200 MPa — dramatically stronger.
- Minimum thickness: 0.5mm (milled).
- Cementation: Conventional cementation possible due to higher strength.
- Best for: Cases requiring more thickness, bruxers, or veneers extending onto occlusal surfaces.