Current status of materials for posterior indirect adhesive restorations

The current materials for manufacturing posterior indirect adhesive restorations (PIAR) can be divided into ceramics, resin composite materials, and hybrid materials. Each one presents different composition, mechanical and optical properties, manufacturing techniques, and survival rates. The aim of this article was to review relevant materials and techniques currently available for manufacturing PIAR. A review of literature for randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews and literature reviews related to PIAR was performed using MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scielo. It is concluded that these materials show high durability and a good clinical performance. Furthermore, the survival rates of these restorations are over 90% for dental ceramics and over 85% for resin composites in the first couple of years with a minimum decrease over time. Thus, PIAR are a conservative and predictable option for restorations of posterior teeth and the choice of material used should always be weighed together with different factors including antagonist material, parafunctional habits, esthetics, and treatment cost.