Tooth Inlays: What They Are & The Restoration Process

A dental inlay is an indirect restoration for posterior teeth (premolars/molars) with moderate decay/defect—too large for a filling, not needing a crown. It fits within the cusps (intracoronal).

Materials

• Porcelain/ceramic (e.max, zirconia) – esthetic, wear-resistant.
• Gold alloy – biocompatible, durable, kind to opposing enamel.
• Composite resin – lower cost, easier repair.

Two-Visit Process

1. Prep & Impression: Anesthesia → remove decay → conservative prep (beveled margins) → digital/analog impression → temporary inlay.
2. Lab Fabrication: CAD/CAM or lost-wax casting.
3. Delivery: Remove temporary → try-in (fit, contacts, occlusion) → bond (adhesive resin cement) or lute (glass ionomer for gold) → polish.

Advantages vs. Crown

• Conserves tooth structure (no buccal/lingual reduction).
• Stronger, better contact/contour than large direct fillings.
• Long-term survival: 10–30+ years.