[Clinical evaluation of a quality criteria system for ceramic inlay restorations]

The aim of this study was to test the utilization of a generally accepted quality criteria system (United States Public Health Services Modified Quality Criteria) in the authors' practice, in the cases of all ceramic inlays and onlays. 41 ceramic inlays/onlays--29 pressed and 12 laminated--were made for 28 patients. Restorations were controlled after 2 years of cementation. According to the USPHS criteria system the following characteristics were controlled: anatomic contour, marginal integrity, marginal discoloration, color match, secondary caries, and surface roughness. In addition, postoperative sensitivity, patient's satisfaction and tooth vitality were examined as well. The USPHS quality criteria system together with the complementary data proved to be an objective examination method that was easily applicable to our clinical practice. On the basis of these studies the utilization of this system together with patient's satisfaction, tooth vitality and sensitivity records appeared a good basis for a regular quality control system of ceramic inlays and onlays.