Product Testing: IPS e.max® ZirCAD® Prime

By Jed Archibald

Posted Jul 09, 2019 in Technical

In February, Ivoclar Vivadent launched IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime, a next-generation all-ceramic. With a flexural strength of 1,200MPa, it’s touted as a one-disc solution because it’s ideal for all indications, from single crowns to 14-unit bridges.


The material is produced using a proprietary manufacturing process—Gradient Technology (GT)—that uses special powder conditioning to combine 3Y and 5Y oxide-ceramic powders, offering a seamless progression of composition, shade and translucency from dentin to enamel. The technician can reproduce the look of natural dentition without additional characterization; however, if more customization is desired, IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime can also be processed using staining, cut-back or veneering techniques.


Jed Archibald, CDT, was one of the first technicians to work with IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime. Here, he explains how he tested the material.



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About The Author

  • Jed Archibald

    Owner/Educator/Technician/CMO at Archibald & Associate/Archibald Esthetics LLC/Christensen Prosthodontics · Orem, UT

    Jed Archibald, CDT, is the owner of Archibald Esthetics LLC and the lead technician and educator for Archibald Associates. He has 20 years of experience and has pioneered ways to blend classic techniques with new technology. 

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