Structure and properties of methacrylate based dental restorative materials.

The chemistry and structure of the dimethacrylate resins and the nature of the filler systems in dental composite resins are reviewed in relation to their influence on the setting behaviour, dimensional stability, aesthetics, fracture behaviour and adhesive potential. It is clear that a deeper understanding of the structure of the polymeric matrix and the mechanism of clinical wear is required. As a result of ongoing research in this area and with the development of dentine adhesives, the future prospects of composite resins are encouraging.