Current materials and techniques for direct restorations in posterior teeth. Part 2: Resin composite systems.

This paper, the second in a two-part review of direct materials and techniques for intracoronal restorations in posterior teeth, deals with resin composite systems. Based on a consensus view on appropriate applications for composites in posterior teeth, consideration is given to the selection of composite systems, indications for posterior composites in different populations, principles for cavity preparation, placement techniques, clinical performance and the use of posterior composites in the context of the changing pattern of dental disease and the need to expand existing knowledge. It is concluded that posterior composites have a place in everyday clinical practice, albeit relatively limited and that the time has come to actively pursue and realise the opportunities afforded by these materials.