Dentistry and Dental Materials

New technologies and materials for the restoration of oral function and esthetics are continuously being introduced to modern dentistry. Traditionally, metal-ceramic restorations were the gold standard for crowns and fixed partial dentures because they provided outstanding performance; nevertheless, these restorations do not always provide optimal esthetics. Dental researchers and manufacturers have been involved in an on-going race to develop a durable, more esthetic replacement for the successful metal-ceramic restoration. Many attempts have been made in recent years to offer a strong, highly esthetic allceramic restoration. Currently, zirconia and lithium disilicate (IPS e.max) are among the most popular materials available for this purpose. The market is replete with advertisements for both zirconia and lithium disilicate, but which material is better, and under which circumstances? This evidence-based, clinically-oriented presentation will highlight the indications, contraindications, advantages and disadvantages of these two ceramic materials with guidelines for selecting the most desirable ceramic material based on the clinical conditions.