Ceramic Dental Fillings

Ceramic Inlays

A new generation of aesthetics, precision, and biocompatibility.

What Is a Ceramic Inlay?

A ceramic inlay is a laboratory-made, micro-precision restoration — a modern alternative to large fillings used to rebuild chewing teeth with significant structural loss. It is created based on an individual digital 3D model and precisely replicates the shape, color, and natural anatomy of the tooth. Ceramic inlays are indicated in cases where a regular filling is no longer sufficient, but a full ceramic crown is not yet necessary. The inlay is produced in the laboratory from your 3D scan and then adhesively bonded to the tooth.

This solution allows us to preserve the vital tooth, restore its function, and bring back its natural aesthetics.

When Is a Ceramic Inlay Recommended?

• When more than 30% of the tooth crown is damaged, but the tooth remains vital
• When a standard filling would not withstand long-term chewing forces or would not meet aesthetic expectations
• If you want the most natural anatomy and shade possible
• In cases of increased tooth sensitivity or frequent fractures of old fillings
• If you are looking for a durable, comfortable, and safe restoration

Ceramic Inlay vs. Filling — What Is the Difference?

• Precision and marginal fit: inlays are fabricated using CAD/CAM technology, providing a micro-accurate seal and reducing the risk of secondary decay.
• Strength and longevity: they maintain shape and strength for 8–12 years and often longer; large fillings may wear down or crack over time.
• Aesthetics: ceramics reproduce the translucency and luster of natural enamel, while standard fillings may darken or lose their polish.
• Tissue preservation: preparation follows prosthodontic principles without unnecessary removal of healthy tooth structure required for mechanical retention.
• Comfort: restores a natural bite and contact points without the feeling of a foreign body.

What Materials Are Used?

Ceramic inlays can be made from pressed ceramics, zirconium oxide, composite ceramics, lithium disilicate, and other materials. While metal-ceramics were once common, modern all-ceramic materials now offer superior strength and aesthetics.

At Omni Dent Clinic, we fabricate inlays from IPS e.max (Ivoclar Vivadent) because:

• the material is fully biocompatible and poses no risk of allergies or inflammation,
• it offers high strength suitable for chewing load,
• it provides exceptional aesthetics — shade, translucency, and enamel-like shine,
• it achieves ideal marginal fit according to the digital model, minimizing micro-gaps.

Treatment Steps

1. Diagnosis and planning: clinical examination, documentation, and material selection.
2. Intraoral scanning: instead of traditional impressions, we take a digital 3D scan of the teeth and bite. The dentist and technician align the data to ensure the inlay fits perfectly, respecting contacts and occlusion.
3. Inlay fabrication: milling from high-strength ceramic blocks using CAD/CAM, followed by hand characterization, glazing, and polishing.
4. Try-in and bonding: checking color, shape, and contacts, followed by adhesive cementation.

Usually, two visits are sufficient. In selected cases, a digital “same-day” reconstruction may be possible.

Care and Longevity

• brush twice daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste,
• use floss, interdental brushes, or an irrigator for interdental hygiene,
• avoid excessive biting forces (hard objects, nutshells),
• schedule routine check-ups and dental hygiene every 6–12 months.

With proper care, ceramic inlays typically last 10–15 years.

Conclusion

Ceramic inlays combine modern digital technology, precision, and preservation of natural tooth structure. We use only biocompatible materials and fully digital workflows to ensure the result is not only aesthetically flawless but also long-lasting.

Omni Dent Clinic — restoring natural function, confidence, and quality of life.