All-Ceramic inlays and onlays for posterior teeth

Abstract

The increasing requirement for aesthetic restorations has been matched by the continuing improvements in dental materials and fabrication techniques. These factors have resulted in the development of newer ways of making tooth-coloured restorations for posterior teeth. The value of preserving tooth tissue is widely appreciated and the use of partial coverage restorations can assist this aim. The use of porcelain inlays and onlays etched with hydrofluoric acid together with improved composite resin-luting agents offers the dentist and patient the option of a conservative and aesthetic restoration for more extensively damaged posterior teeth. The paper describes the indications and clinical procedures for the use of these restorations. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Porcelain inlays and onlays offer a predictable alternative to full coverage crowns and should be part of the clinician's armamentarium.