Composite Inlays

Of all the different types of restorations I do, I enjoy doing composite inlays the most because it engages me artistically and patients are uniformly happy with the service. Indeed in all the years I’ve been doing them, I’ve not had a single case of post-operative sensitivity.

So, you’re probably asking what are composite inlays and what’s the big deal. First of all, let me tell you when they are indicated and then I’ll tell you what they are. I use them primarily in back teeth that need large fillings but do not need a crown. As to what they are, you probably have heard of regular composite fillings. They are tooth-colored restorative material that are placed directly into a cavity preparation. But large composites have a draw-back when used as a direct filling because they shrink as they harden and they are not very resistant to biting forces. By using the composite as an inlay, I can solve these problems of shrinkage and softness.

An inlay is a two-step process where an impression is taken of the prepared tooth, a laboratory prepares the piece that will fit into the preparation, and then the composite piece is bonded to the tooth. This two-step process allows us to heat cure the inlay to make it harder and more polishable before placement into the tooth. Also, this two-step process allows us to compensate for the natural shrinkage of composites by adding a minute amount of composite to the tooth on placement of the inlay.

Although the restoration is a two-step process, I have techniques that allow me to start and finish the work in one visit, which for many patients is a plus.

I love being able to hold the little inlays in my hand and create these works of art. I’m also gratified that when I am done, you hardly know a dentist had been there. It’s also good to know that the heat curing process has volatilized out the components that would have otherwise made for a weaker restoration. I can show you the results with my intra-oral camera.