An indirect restoration fabricated outside the mouth and subsequently cemented or bonded into a prepared cavity within a tooth is known as an inlay. This restoration is typically used to repair damaged or decayed areas located within the cusps of a tooth. For instance, it might be selected when a cavity is too large for a filling but not extensive enough to require a crown.
The utilization of this type of restoration offers several advantages, including increased strength and durability compared to direct fillings. Materials such as gold, porcelain, or composite resin are employed in their creation, allowing for excellent aesthetics and biocompatibility. Historically, gold was a primary material, but advancements in dental materials have led to increased use of tooth-colored options that blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure.
