The literature on composite resins has been surveyed, with particular emphasis on recent publications, to build up a picture of the current state of the art concerning their use in dentistry. They are shown to be versatile materials, capable of being formulated for a variety of clinical applications. A major current division is into packable (high viscosity) and flowable (low viscosity) types that between then can be used to repair full cavities, including in posterior teeth, as well as provide repairs for abfraction (Class V) lesions and for fractured incisors. Current trends in material composition, including varying filler loadings and use of new photo‑initiators, are described. Recent clinical findings show good outcomes with these materials and are described in appropriate detail.

Key words: composite resin, polymerization, properties, durability.