HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What defines an inlay in dental restorations?

1. A restoration covering the entire tooth

2. A casted restoration involving some occlusal and proximal surfaces

3. A solid milled crown that replaces a missing tooth

4. A temporary material placed in decayed areas of a tooth

The correct answer is: A casted restoration involving some occlusal and proximal surfaces

An inlay in dental restorations is specifically defined as a cast restoration that typically involves some occlusal (the chewing surface) and proximal (the sides touching adjacent teeth) surfaces of a tooth. This type of restoration is designed to fit within the contours of the prepared cavity and is custom-made in a dental laboratory, often from materials such as gold, porcelain, or composite resin. This contrasts with other types of restorations; for instance, a restoration that covers the entire tooth would be classified as a crown, not an inlay. Similarly, a solid milled crown completely replaces a missing tooth, and a temporary material is used in various situations, like covering decayed areas until a permanent restoration is placed, but it does not fall under the category of an inlay. Understanding the specific characteristics of an inlay helps in recognizing its role in restorative dentistry and ensures proper terminology is used when discussing dental procedures.