Amalgam vs. composite resin: 1998

Class II resin restorations have been evolving in American dentistry for 30 years, but the concept has had significant difficulty being accepted because of stigma attached to early generations of composites. Currently available composite resins for posterior tooth restorations have physical characteristics justifying their use. Techniques for Class II resin placement have improved significantly, and mastery of them is within the ability of both dentists and dental students. Although composite resin materials and techniques present clinical challenges, so do amalgam materials and techniques. It is time to accept Class II resin restorations, improve dentist and student education about their use, increase acceptance by third-party organizations and various approving groups, and bring this concept into the mainstream of U.S. dentistry.