Abstract: The 5-year and 10-year survival rates of ceramic and composite resin inlays and onlays of posterior teeth are 87.1%~97.6% and 51.4%~85.4%, respectively. Their performances are based on several factors of the materials and thickness of restoration, the position and condition of the abutment tooth and the application of cements. Previous clinical investigations showed that the risk of fracture decreased significantly when the thickness of inlays was increased to 2 mm. Currently, self-adhesive resin cements have achieved similar clinical results for cementations of inlays and onlays compared with self-etch and etch-&-rinse resin cements. The application of resin cements and rubber dams can improve the clinical outcome of inlays and onlays. Concerning the materials used for inlay restorations, the positions and conditions of abutment tooth and the selection of cements, the limited data in the present study, a consolidated conclusion can not be drawn.

Key words: inlays, ceramic, composite resin, factors