Contemporary aesthetic restorative dental composite materials

Purpose: This is a review paper that gives an insight into the most popular group ofaesthetic dental materials - dental composite materials. This article describes the historicalbackground, the main features of this group of materials, the cathegorization of the materialsin relation to clinical applications and the polymerization proces.Design/methodology/approach: This review is based on the contemporary scientificliterature most relevant to the topic. The literature search has been made in Elsevier -Science Direct.Findings: Light-curing dental composites exhibit some resemblance to the constructionof the hard tissues of the tooth. They also consist of two basic components. These are:an organic matrix and an inorganic filler. The third component, which is regularly added, isso-called binding agent. According to the composition of the materials they make a goodchoice for aesthetic restoration in natural dentition.Practical implications: In the clinical observations there are many complications resultingfrom inadequate polymerization of composite materials. This may be the result of poorquality of curing lights of a very low intensity, too long distance between the tip of the lampand the surface of the material or improper exposure timeOriginality/value: Dental composite materials are the only group of dental materialsin which these features are combined together, ensuring naturally looking final effect ofthe restoration. Easy handling of the dental composite materials together with effectivepolymerization process with portable light units make these materials a good choice forclinical use.