Treatment Overview
Lithium Disilicate Inlay in Korea represents the highest level of precision and aesthetics in modern restorative dentistry. Made from advanced glass-ceramic material, lithium disilicate inlays offer superior strength, translucency, and biocompatibility — creating restorations that are both durable and indistinguishable from natural enamel.
Korean dental clinics are globally recognized for their excellence in digital ceramic dentistry, using CAD/CAM design and milling systems to create perfectly fitted lithium disilicate restorations. This material, known for its exceptional clarity and fracture resistance, is ideal for restoring moderately damaged or decayed teeth while maintaining a completely natural appearance.
Unlike traditional composites or metal fillings, lithium disilicate inlays are metal-free, long-lasting, and stain-resistant. They provide a perfect balance between aesthetic beauty, mechanical strength, and precision fit, making them one of the most sought-after restorative options in Korea.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of Lithium Disilicate Inlay treatment is to restore damaged tooth structure with a strong, aesthetic, and long-lasting restoration that enhances both function and beauty.
Key Benefits Include:
- Superior Aesthetic Appeal: Mimics natural enamel with lifelike translucency and shine.
- High Strength & Durability: Up to four times stronger than conventional glass ceramics.
- Precise Fit: Fabricated using digital CAD/CAM technology for a seamless bond.
- Metal-Free & Biocompatible: Safe for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
- Long-Term Color Stability: Resistant to stains and discoloration.
- Tooth Preservation: Minimally invasive procedure conserving healthy enamel.
- Thermal Compatibility: Expands and contracts like natural tooth material, preventing cracks.
This treatment perfectly combines advanced material science and digital precision for long-lasting, aesthetic restorations.
Ideal Candidates
Lithium Disilicate Inlay treatment is suitable for patients who need strong, durable, and natural-looking restorations for damaged or decayed teeth.
Ideal Candidates Include:
- Patients with moderate cavities or enamel loss.
- Individuals replacing old metal or composite restorations.
- Those who value long-term durability with natural aesthetics.
- Patients with cracked or fractured teeth requiring reinforcement.
- People seeking minimally invasive, biocompatible restorations.
This treatment is ideal for those who desire premium, high-performance ceramic restorations that are strong and naturally beautiful.
Possible Risks & Complications
Lithium Disilicate Inlays are extremely safe and effective, but as with any dental treatment, minor issues may occur:
- Mild Sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity to temperature changes after bonding.
- Chipping Risk: Rare, but possible under excessive biting force.
- Replacement Requirement: Inlays may eventually require replacement after many years of wear.
Korean dentists minimize these risks using high-strength ceramics, advanced bonding protocols, and precision occlusal adjustments for perfect bite alignment.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean dental clinics utilize digital design, high-temperature ceramic pressing, and precision bonding techniques to achieve exceptional functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Common Techniques Include:
- Digital Scanning (CAD/CAM): 3D imaging captures the tooth structure for a perfect design.
- Minimal Tooth Preparation: Conserves natural enamel while removing decay.
- Ceramic Pressing or Milling: Lithium disilicate is pressed or milled into the exact shape of the inlay.
- Trial Fitting: Ensures perfect fit, contact, and shade match.
- Etching & Bonding: Advanced resin cements used for secure, long-term adhesion.
- Finishing & Polishing: Achieves enamel-like smoothness and translucency.
These advanced techniques ensure precision, comfort, and flawless natural results.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery following Lithium Disilicate Inlay treatment is typically immediate and comfortable. Patients can return to their daily activities right after the procedure.
Aftercare Guidelines:
- Avoid biting hard foods for 24 hours after bonding.
- Brush gently using non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
- Floss daily to maintain gum health and prevent decay around the restoration.
- Limit foods or beverages that cause staining.
- Schedule regular checkups every six months for polishing and maintenance.
With proper care, the restoration remains smooth, glossy, and durable for many years.
Results & Longevity
Lithium Disilicate Inlays deliver both aesthetic brilliance and mechanical endurance, restoring your teeth with a lifelike and long-lasting finish.
Expected Results:
- Natural, translucent restoration blending perfectly with enamel.
- Strengthened tooth structure and improved function.
- Long-lasting color and shine resistant to daily wear.
- Comfortable, seamless bite alignment.
- Longevity of 15–20 years or more with proper oral care.
Korean dental professionals use premium lithium disilicate ceramics that maintain their integrity, strength, and luster over time.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korean dental clinics combine digital precision and advanced ceramic engineering to produce world-class restorative results.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Comprehensive Consultation: Dentist assesses the tooth using 3D scanning and X-rays.
- Tooth Preparation: Decayed or damaged enamel removed with minimal drilling.
- Digital Impression (CAD/CAM): 3D model created for precise restoration design.
- Inlay Fabrication: Lithium disilicate inlay digitally milled or heat-pressed for exact fit.
- Trial Fitting: Dentist checks contact, color match, and bite alignment.
- Bonding Process: High-strength resin cement used to securely fix the inlay.
- Polishing & Finishing: Surface refined to replicate natural enamel gloss.
- Final Evaluation: Dentist verifies fit, function, and aesthetics.
This process ensures exceptional accuracy, longevity, and aesthetic perfection with minimal discomfort.
Cost Range
The cost of Lithium Disilicate Inlay treatment in Korea varies depending on the tooth location, size, and ceramic system used.
- Single Tooth (Standard Inlay): ₩600,000 – ₩1,000,000 (USD $450 – $750)
- Large or Multi-Surface Inlay: ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,800,000 (USD $900 – $1,350)
- Multiple Tooth Restorations: ₩2,000,000+ (USD $1,500+)
Most Korean clinics include digital scanning, design, fabrication, and polishing within their treatment packages.
Popular Considerations
- Choose clinics equipped with CAD/CAM milling systems for faster and more precise results.
- Request lithium disilicate ceramic systems (e.g., e.max) for premium strength and beauty.
- Maintain regular dental hygiene and professional polishing.
- Avoid excessive force or chewing on hard objects.
- Korean dental centers are world-renowned for digital ceramic restoration, high-strength materials, and natural aesthetic craftsmanship, providing top-tier results for patients worldwide.
