Composites have been in use for over thirty years. They are standard for front teeth and well-proven also for molars. Over this period the materials used have been considerably improved, especially the bonding techniques. For over 20 years composites were fixed to the tooth using the enamel-etch technique with excellent results, in recent years the dentine-bonding technique has become common which is considerably more work intensive but also has higher precision.

The durability of a composite-ceramic filling depends greatly on the effort involved: Therefore, composite-fillings done "on-the-quick" are certainly not advisable.

For middle teeth we use Tetric Ceram, 81% of which is a solid filler therefore ensuring durability. This material displays none of the disadvantages of amalgam.

For the success of many dental procedures, for example for composite fillings or porcelain inlays, it is imperative that the tooth is completely dry during treatment. For a long time now, international practice has been to use a thin piece of rubber made from latex. This is placed around the tooth in question and held with a clip. It protects the treated teeth from blood, saliva, bacteria and moist breath.