Direct posterior composites: a practical guide.

UNLABELLED The restoration of posterior teeth with directly placed resin-bonded composite requires meticulous operative technique in order to ensure success. Case and material selection; cavity preparation; matrix selection; isolation; bonding; management of polymerization shrinkage; placement; finishing and curing of posterior composites--all present a series of challenges that dentists must master in order to ensure high-quality, long-lasting restorations. This paper describes and discusses these aspects of the provision of composites for loadbearing situations in posterior teeth. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Successful restoration of posterior teeth with composite is an essential component of contemporary dental clinical practice.