title: Direct composite restorative materials.
abstract: Composite dental restorative materials have advanced considerably over the past 10 years. Although composites have not totally replaced amalgam, they have become a viable substitute in many situations. Problems still exist with polymerization contraction stress, large differences in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of composites compared with tooth structure, and with some technique sensitivity; however, new expanding resins, nanofiller technology, and improved bonding systems have the potential to reduce these problems. With increased patient demands for esthetic restorations, the use of direct filling composite materials will continue to grow. The one major caveat to this prediction is that clinicians must continue to use sound judgment on when, where, and how to use composite restoratives in their practices.
authors.affiliation: Care Planning and Restorative Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, School of Dentistry, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216, USA. apuckett@sod.umsmed.edu
authors.forename: Aaron D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Puckett
authors.forename: James G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Fitchie
authors.forename: Pia Chaterjee
authors.initials: PC
authors.lastname: Kirk
authors.forename: Jefferson
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gamblin
mesh_terms: D003188:Composite Resins / Q000737:chemistry; D001840:Dental Bonding; D003764:Dental Materials / Q000737:chemistry; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent; D004955:Esthetics, Dental; D006801:Humans; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000737:chemistry; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013499:Surface Properties
chemical_list: D003188:Composite Resins; D003764:Dental Materials; D011108:Polymers