title: Ceramic inlays: clinical assessment and survival rate.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study evaluates the clinical behavior of ceramic inlays placed during the past decade.
  
  
  METHODS
  One hundred eighty-two inlays were examined in 66 patients. The interval between placement and assessment was on average 5.9 years +/- 2.7, ranging from 2 to 11.7 years. Restorations still present at the time of evaluation were clinically assessed according to modified USPHS criteria. Kaplan-Meier statistical analysis was used to assess the survival rate.
  
  
  RESULTS
  According to USPHS criteria, good results were obtained for color match, marginal discoloration, recurrent caries, contour, and marginal integrity. Six inlays failed: four for endodontic reasons, one due to recurrent caries, and the other due to fracture. The results indicate that a success rate of 95% could be predicted at 11.5 years.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The lack of recurrent caries, the only slight changes in marginal discoloration and color match, combined with the excellent longevity prove that ceramic inlays are a valuable tool for the restoration of posterior teeth.
authors.affiliation: SAOS-FUZZI@mail.asianet.it
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fuzzi
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Rappelli
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001641:Bicuspid; D002484:Cementation; D003116:Color; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000517:prevention & control; D018772:Dental Marginal Adaptation; D003776:Dental Porcelain; D019232:Dental Restoration Failure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007284:Inlays; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008963:Molar; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D016019:Survival Analysis; D014075:Tooth Discoloration
chemical_list: D003776:Dental Porcelain