Packable Resin Composites Lieutenant Joseph C . Joyce

Introduction Increased demand by patients and clinicians for esthetic restorations coupled with the public’s concern about mercury have resulted in an escalating use of resin composite materials (1). Resin composite is now often utilized to restore tooth surfaces previously accomplished with silver amalgam. Packable (a.k.a. moldable or condensable) resin composites are the product of vast amounts of research money and time focused on the development of a resin-based amalgam substitute with sufficient physical properties to withstand posterior occlusal forces. Unfortunately, clinical and laboratory data are mixed concerning the long-term success of packable resin composite restorations. This paper will discuss some of the physical properties of packable resin composites and indications and contraindications for their use.