The current status of materials for posterior composite restorations: the advent of low shrink.

UNLABELLED: Polymerization contraction, and the stresses associated with this, have presented problems with resin composite materials, particularly when used to restore cavities in posterior teeth. This paper summarizes the problems associated with polymerization contraction and examines methods used to overcome this, in particular, by the use of materials which have reduced percentage contraction when compared with traditional materials. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Use of a material with reduced polymerization contraction should lead to simpler restoration placement.