A 3-year clinical evaluation of a porcelain inlay system.
OBJECTIVE
The porcelain inlay technique was described over a century ago, and, although not yet used as a routine restorative procedure, may prove to provide restorations of unsurpassed functional and aesthetic qualities in certain situations. The aim of this study was to investigate the handling properties and clinical characteristics of a porcelain inlay system, to highlight any advantages and disadvantages of the restorations under investigation, and to indicate further studies as considered appropriate.


METHODS
Fifty moderate to large-sized Class 1 and Class II restorations of a porcelain inlay system were investigated in premolar and permanent molar teeth of 27 adult patients over a 3-year period using modified United States Public Health codes and criteria. Selected restorations were evaluated indirectly by scanning electron microscopic analysis.


RESULTS
There was a high early rate of bulk fracture. By 6 months post-placement there had been a limited deterioration in marginal integrity associated with 20% of the remaining restorations, but this trend was not seen to continue. Patient acceptance was very favourable.


CONCLUSIONS
It was concluded that the system under investigation afforded a technique-sensitive method of producing tooth-coloured restorations. Proposals for further work include investigations of the fitting accuracy of indirect tooth-coloured restorations, cavity design modifications and the use of alternative bases and luting agents.
Restorative Dentistry, University Dental Hospital of Manchester, UK.
A J
AJ
Qualtrough
N H
NH
Wilson
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D018772:Dental Marginal Adaptation; D003776:Dental Porcelain; D019232:Dental Restoration Failure; D019554:Dental Restoration Wear; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007284:Inlays; D008297:Male; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D008875:Middle Aged; D016628:Replica Techniques; D019279:Resin Cements; D013499:Surface Properties
D019279:Resin Cements; D003776:Dental Porcelain