Inlay
An indirect intracoronal restoration fabricated outside the mouth and cemented into a prepared tooth cavity, restoring its form and function.
Full Definition
An inlay is a custom-made restoration—typically of gold, ceramic, or composite—that is fabricated in a dental laboratory from an impression and then bonded or cemented into the prepared cavity of a tooth. Unlike a direct filling placed in situ, an inlay is made extraorally and fits within the tooth's cusps without covering them. Editors must distinguish inlays from onlays (which extend over one or more cusps) and from overlays or crowns (which provide greater coverage). The distinction is clinically and financially significant on NHS and private fee schedules. The term 'indirect restoration' encompasses both inlays and onlays.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish clearly from 'onlay' (cusp coverage) and 'crown' (full coverage). Specify material and surface coverage notation (e.g. MO, MOD) in records.
In Context
- "A ceramic inlay was prescribed for the MO cavity of LR4, with a two-stage impression technique." — Laboratory prescription
- "The treatment plan specifies an inlay, not an onlay; please verify cusp coverage in the clinical notes." — Editorial review note