These are indirect fillings fitted to a cavity in a tooth and cemented into place.
These are needed when the decay or fracture is so extensive that cannot be restored with composite or amalgam. These are usually made from porcelain, composite, resin (tooth coloured materials) and sometimes even from gold. They can also be used to replace metal fillings.
These are helpful in preventing the eventual tooth loss, besides being stronger, well fitting and longer lasting solution to tooth decay or fracture.
Benefits
- Conservative tooth preparation, so tooth structure is preserved.
- These are aesthetic fillings and not likely to discolour over time.
- Teeth are easier to clean with these restorations.
- If there is a cavity between teeth, inlays are considered better at sealing.
- These are extremely stable restorative solutions for tooth decay.