When treating small caries, inlays are typically considered:

Inlays are considered more conservative when treating small caries because they preserve more of the natural tooth structure compared to traditional fillings or other restorative options. When a tooth has small cavities, inlays can be designed to fit the cavity precisely, allowing for a minimal amount of the tooth to be removed while still effectively restoring its function and aesthetics. This conservativeness is a key advantage of inlays, as they help maintain the integrity and strength of the tooth, reducing the risk of further damage or the need for more extensive treatment down the line.

In contrast, other options may involve more extensive tooth reduction or may not be as beneficial for maintaining tooth health, which emphasizes the role of inlays as a preferable choice in conservative dentistry.