Critical Reviews in Oral Biology & Medicine, Vol 6, 302-318, Copyright © 1995 by International & American Associations for Dental Research
Current trends in dental composites
J. L. Ferracane
Department of Biomaterials and Biomechanics, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3097, USA.
The clinical performance of dental composites has been significantly
improved over the past decade through modifications in formulation that
include: using more stable polymerization promoters for greater color
stability; incorporating high concentrations of finely ground fillers to
produce adequate strength and excellent wear resistance while retaining
translucency; adding radiopacifying agents for improved diagnostics; and
utilizing dentin adhesives. However, there are problems which limit the use
of composites, especially in posterior teeth. The materials remain very
technique-sensitive, due to the extensive contraction which accompanies
polymerization and negatively influences marginal sealing. In addition, the
materials are generally considered to have inadequate mechanical properties
and wear resistance in contact areas to serve as total replacements for
amalgams. Current efforts are focusing on several areas, including the
development of non- or minimally-shrinking dental composites containing
spiro-orthocarbonates as additives to dimethacrylates or epoxy-base resins,
and the production of alternative filler materials for ideal wear
resistance and esthetics. This paper reviews the composition and
characteristics of current dental composites, as well as recent areas of
study.
