This book covers both basic scientific and clinically relevant aspects of dental composite
materials with a view to meeting the needs of researchers and practitioners. Following an
introduction on their development the composition of contemporary composites is analyzed. A
chapter on polymerization explains the setting reactions and light sources available for
light-cured composites. The quality of monomer-to-polymer conversion is a key factor for
material properties. Polymerization shrinkage along with the associated stress remains among
the most challenging issues regarding composite restorations. A new classification of dental
composites is proposed to offer more clinically relevant ways of differentiating between
commercially available materials. A review of specific types of composites provides an insight
into their key issues. The potential biological issues of dental composites are reviewed in
chapters on elution of leachable substances and cariogenicity of resin monomers. Clinical
sections focus on material placement finishing procedures and the esthetics and clinical
longevity of composite restorations. Bonding to tooth tissues is addressed in a separate
chapter as is the efficiency of various composite repair methods. The final chapter discusses
future perspectives on dental composite materials.
