How does it differ from a direct filling?
An inlay is made outside the mouth to fit the prepared defect. The custom insert is then secured in the tooth.
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How is an inlay different?
An inlay is a custom-made filling produced outside the mouth and secured in a prepared tooth. It usually replaces tooth structure within the chewing surface. Its suitability depends particularly on the defect and the tooth structure that remains.
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A custom insert rather than a filling shaped in the tooth
An inlay is made to fit the prepared defect. An impression or scan provides the information needed. Materials include ceramic and metal, for example.
Natural tooth structure forms the surrounding frame
A conventional inlay sits mainly within the chewing surface. If weakened tooth cusps need to be covered, a differently designed restoration may be considered.
Fit, secure and check
The fit and contacts are checked before the inlay is secured. The bite is checked afterwards too. The junction between the inlay and tooth still needs careful cleaning.
At a glance
What type of defect can it restore?
A conventional inlay sits mainly within the chewing surface. Suitability depends particularly on the remaining tooth structure and the condition of the cusps.
What are the steps?
An impression or scan guides fabrication. Fit, contacts and bite are checked before and after attachment; the junctions still need careful cleaning.
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Often confused
Inlay, onlay or partial crown?
These names describe restorations with different coverage. A conventional inlay sits mainly within the chewing surface; other restorations also cover tooth cusps. The precise design should be explained.
Quick answers
Is every inlay made of ceramic?
No. Inlays can also be made of metal alloys, for example. The material and method of attachment are chosen to suit the situation.
Does an inlay always need several appointments?
That depends on how it is made and the treatment process. A temporary restoration may be needed if the inlay is made externally; computer-assisted methods may follow a different schedule.
Is an inlay automatically better than composite?
No. The choice depends on the individual tooth, the remaining tooth structure and the treatment options. The name alone does not tell you whether it is suitable.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Which walls and cusps of my tooth are still stable, and how much of it should the restoration cover?
Healthy structures and a functioning bite are foundations of Dr. Barahmand Pour's planning. A restoration is selected only after the requirements have been assessed.
If you have questions about an inlay, we can examine the tooth together and discuss the restoration options.
Book an inlay consultationChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Indirect restoration
- A restoration made outside the mouth and then secured to the tooth.
- Tooth preparation
- Shaping selected tooth structure to receive a planned restoration.
- Attachment
- Securing the inlay to the tooth; the method also depends on the material used.
Know the difference
Direct or indirect describes how a restoration is made. Composite or ceramic describes its material. These classifications answer different questions.
Sources for further learning
Sources and context
Editorial research: 22 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.