The art and science of the direct posterior restoration: recreating form, color, and translucency

In the past two decades the major advances bonding has experienced are directly related to material improvements and significant advances in adhesive technology. It is because of the superior physical properties of the posterior composite that we can provide patients with a long-lasting restoration if a meticulous bonding protocol was followed. It is possible simultaneously to preserve healthy tooth structure; reproduce its original shape, color, and translucency; and strengthen the affected tooth. Although the main focus in the past was on improving the bonding adhesive properties and the development of strength and polishability of the restorative materials, the current objective is to simplify the bonding technique and to create a shrinkage-free composite while simultaneously improving its optical properties.